It is widely acknowledged that the UK needs young people with good STEM qualifications to provide a skilled workforce for business and industry. In addition it is crucial that all young people, regardless of their future career pathway, have the STEM knowledge and skills they need to be an informed citizen in an increasingly scientific and technological society.
In 2006 the government's STEM Programme Report set out a wide ranging programme of activity to tackle these challenges, building on previous government work to ensure a strong UK STEM base, which is described in more detail here.
STEM cohesion: a unique opportunity
STEM education in the UK is fortunate in the support received from government, business and industry, academia and charitable organisations. The STEM Programme Report recommended closer collaboration between these organisations, in order to improve the effectiveness of STEM education support offered to schools and colleges.
'There is a need for greater co-ordination and joining up of the many providers of professional development and enhancement activities to achieve more coherent delivery, but without sacrificing diversity of choice.' (STEM Programme Report, 2006)
The STEM Programme is led by Sir John Holman, National STEM Director, working with a team at the National STEM Centre. Eleven areas of work (Action Programmes) are focusing on teacher recruitment, continuing professional development, enhancement and enrichment activity, curriculum development, and infrastructure. Each area of work is driven forward by a specialist Lead Organisation, working collaboratively with the National STEM Centre.