Finding work experience in STEM...

Over 95% of students go on work experience in Years 10 or 11. Most placements are arranged for the latter half of the summer term in Year 10, to avoid disruption to timetabled learning. Some placements last three weeks, but most finish after two weeks, or even one.

 

If you are looking for a placement related to science or maths and haven’t been able to find one through school, then you may well have to find a placement yourself. You can get ideas from friends, family, online business directories or business directories in your local library, or have a look at the list below for ideas on where you can start your research:

 

The Design & Technology Association

British Science Association

Royal Society of Chemistry

Institute of Physics

STEMNET

National STEM Centre (includes e-library resources)

icould

Institute for Education Business Excellence

Student Job

https://www.rsb.org.uk/careers-and-cpd/careers/work-experience

https://successatschool.org/advicedetails/506/Work-Experience-Ideas

For more useful careers advice, and opportunities join SATROclub by emailing satroclub@satro.org.uk

The High Sheriff of Surrey 2016-17

Richard Whittington was installed as The High Sheriff of Surrey 2016-17 on Friday at Guildford Cathedral, with a commitment to helping young people into work.

 

Making his declaration of allegiance to the Queen to a congregation of civic dignitaries at the close of choral evensong, Richard Whittington of Chobham assumed an office that is at least 1,000 years old with its roots in Saxon England. It is the oldest continuous secular office under the crown.

 

Mr Whittington takes over from the 2015-16 High Sheriff, Elizabeth Kennedy. High Sheriffs are appointed by the Queen, and she pricked his name with a brass bodkin from a shortlist of three candidates.

 

His role is The Queen’s representative of the judiciary, and the office is unpaid, with each Sheriff covering his own expenses. Mr Whittington will support organisations that uphold law and order, including the courts, police, prisons, emergency service and voluntary bodies.

 

He is keenly interested in youth opportunities and will be working to promote openings to bring them into work through apprenticeships, internships and work experience, with particular focus on science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

 

Mr Whittington previously worked for KPMG, where he was Partner-in-Charge of the Infrastructure, Government and Healthcare group and simultaneously Global Head of Building and Construction, based in London. He has lived in Surrey for over 30 years and is involved with the community in a number of areas including being a Governor of Gordon's School and non-executive director of The Hillingdon Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. Richard is Honorary Treasurer of the Community Foundation for Surrey and sits on the Finance and Investment Group.

Finding work experience opportunities in STEM

Over 95% of students go on work experience in Years 10 or 11. Most placements are arranged for the latter half of the summer term in Year 10, to avoid disruption to timetabled learning. Some placements last three weeks, but most finish after two weeks, or even one.

 

If you are looking for a placement related to science or maths and haven’t been able to find one through school, then you may well have to find a placement yourself. You can get ideas from friends, family, online business directories or business directories in your local library, or have a look at the list below for ideas on where you can start your research:

 

The Design & Technology Association

British Science Association

Royal Society of Chemistry

Institute of Physics

STEMNET

National STEM Centre (includes e-library resources)

icould

Institute for Education Business Excellence

Student Job

https://www.rsb.org.uk/careers-and-cpd/careers/work-experience

https://successatschool.org/advicedetails/506/Work-Experience-Ideas

SATRO PROBLEM SOLVING CHALLENGE 2016 - British Science Week 11th - 20th March

SATRO Problem Solving Challenge 2016

As part of British Science Week 2016, SATRO is holding the annual Problem Solving Challenge Grand Final on 17th March 2016. 

The well established SATRO Problem Solving Challenge is a competition for teams of six students in Key Stage groups 3-5 (years 7-13) and is open to all secondary schools in Surrey and the surrounding areas. The teams are set a problem to solve within a set time, using only the materials provided (anything from a marble to a piece of tin foil!). The winning teams are those in each key stage group who have been judged to have best met the criteria set out in the problem.

The culmination of the 2016 SATRO Problem Solving Challenge heats which took place around the county will be on Thursday 17^th March 2016. The two highest scoring teams from each of the 3 key stages at each heat will go up against each other at ACS Cobham International School to decide the 2016 victors.

This year’s Problem Solving Challenge has been kindly supported by Allianz, Give-It-Away, The Manly Trust, Frazer-Nash Consultancy, The Armourers and Brasiers Company and the Institution of Chemical Engineers. Their support has allowed SATRO to host 62 schools, reaching over 900 students; enabling them to develop their team working, problem solving and time management skills, as well as have fun whilst learning.

Students from our SATRO Problem Solving Challenge heats commented:

 “I learnt about teamwork and time management, as well as overcoming problems.”

“I learnt that trial and improvement is always the best solution. Not all things will work and it’s never too late to start again.”

"The best thing I learnt today was that more time is needed to be spent on planning because once you start making something it can be hard to change.”

SATRO Maths Challenge 2016

SATRO hosted its annual Maths Challenge across two dates at George Abbot School, Guildford on 25^th February and 3^rd March 2016. This after-school event is aimed at sixth form students from schools around Surrey and neighbouring counties, and challenges them to tackle mathematical problems, including concepts taught at A-Level, as well as ideas which the students might expect to meet should they continue to study maths at degree level.

In addition to the Challenge element, the students were treated to talks from staff at Unum on how studying maths at university can be an excellent choice for a career, explaining that there is far more to maths than meets the eye!

The event was sponsored by Unum, Ernest Cook Trust, Surrey County Councillor Keith Taylor and The Community Foundation for Surrey in partnership with Electronic Arts. Susan Sanderson, spokesperson for Unum, had this to say:

“It was an honour to be asked to support SATRO with their annual Maths Challenge for the third year running.  Education and supporting the development of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) and employability skills of young people within our local communities is a core element of Unum’s Corporate Social Responsibility programme. Our actuaries really enjoyed the opportunity to speak to the students about their journey from University to Unum and we hope their presentation gave them some valuable insights into where a degree in maths could take them.”

 

The highest scoring teams from the two evenings were the Sutton Grammar School for Boys, Sutton and Tiffin School, Kingston.

83% of students who attended the event said they were more interested in studying maths at a high level as a result of participating; 93% said they had increased their understanding of how maths might be useful in a career. 

Less than 20% of students continue the study of mathematics beyond the age of 16. This comes at a time when findings from the Economic & Social Research Council report that at age 14 students today have less mathematical understanding than in the 1970s.

'Are You Ready To Rock n Role?' by guest blogger Dr Elaine Hickmott

Recently I have been pondering the subject of leadership and role models.  When the SATRO team invited me to write a blog post supporting our celebration of Ada Lovelace in December I immediately knew my theme; role models and the part they play in innovation and encouraging future generations.

To explore this further let’s begin with two definitions:

Of all the potential links between role models and innovation, the one that resonates most strongly for me is inspiration; something or someone that stimulates the mind and can foster feelings of confidence and encouragement.  All of which help provide a fertile ground for innovation.

Sharing stories, explaining experiences and interacting with others provide the insights, spark the ideas and bring the human dimension needed to fuel creativity and the desire to make a difference.  Both of which are necessary to bring about innovation.  This is particularly important in STEM.  Science, technology, engineering and maths are part of our lives every day but not everyone appreciates or understands their contribution to society and the economy.  Therefore, we need role models who help raise awareness, showcase innovation in action and present STEM in a real world context.  And the best people to do this?  STEM professionals and their real life experiences.

In The Spotlight. Ready Or Not!

Like most people, scientists and engineers don’t wake up in the morning and declare, “Today, I am going to be a role model”.  It is a status bestowed upon us by others who see us as a positive example to be emulated.  This means it can happen at any time with any person.  Therefore, as STEM professionals and leaders we need to recognise the influence our behaviours and values have on others.  As well as embracing the fact that we have the chance to inspire those around us. 

A great example of this came from one of my clients; a scientist and director in the environmental sector.  During our work together she learnt that she was viewed as a role model by other females in the company who were pleased to see a woman on the Board. She told me, ”When I learnt I was viewed as a role model it was an amazing revelation to me, and made me even more determined to communicate successfully and be a positive example”.

A Stereotype-free Zone

Finally, there is an assumption that role models are people older and more experienced than us.  This is not necessarily the case.  Inspiration doesn’t have such a narrow outlook.  Personally, I continue to be inspired by the young people who I meet through working with SATRO.  Their ideas and fresh perspectives on the world add a new dimension to my own view; something I cannot achieve alone.  Plus meeting them makes me strive to be even better myself.  If by chance they see me as an example, I certainly don’t want to let them down!

Regardless of age, background, experience and aspirations, we all have the ability to inspire others to be their best, to innovate and to make a difference.  It’s a gift and it’s powerful.  How are you going to share your gift today?

by Dr Elaine Hickmott, Development Director and founder, EH Enterprises

If you would like to find out more information and/or book tickets for the Ada Lovelace Evening in aid of SATRO, follow this link. Alternatively, call Guildford Tourist Information on 01483 444334

HOWARD RAILTON TO BECOME NEW CHAIRMAN OF TRUSTEES FOR SATRO

SATRO, the Guildford based education charity, is delighted to announce the appointment of Howard Railton as the new Chairman of Trustees

Dr Beccy Bowden CEO of SATRO has announced that Howard Railton has been appointed as the new SATRO Chairman of Trustees. In addition, Dr Bowden is delighted that the outgoing Chairman, James Dubois, will join Jon Tickle and Dr Matt Perkins of e2v as Patrons of SATRO.

Dr Beccy Bowden commented, ‘I am delighted that Howard has agreed to take on the role of SATRO Chairman as we enter our fourth decade of inspiring young people about their future careers.  I know that our cause is one he feels passionately about. I am also very pleased that James will remain an active supporter by joining our Patrons and taking the lead on our fundraising activities. The last few years have seen the need for inspirational programmes for young people grow and grow – whilst the funding climate has been tough for all small charities. Without the hard work, dedication and active support of our Trustees and Patrons we would not be able to continue to grow and develop and we are indebted to them for everything they do for us’.

In June 2014, Howard Railton retired as Director of Projects for Air Products’ Global Engineering Organisation, Europe. Whilst there he was providing Organisational Management, Safety and Leadership consultancy and worked with various organisations to promote a greater interest in education and jobs in science and engineering in the UK.  Howard graduated from Bristol University with an Honours Degree in Mechanical Engineering and he is a Chartered Engineer and a Fellow of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers.  He is a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Scientific Instrument Makers who are devoted to promoting science and engineering in the City of London.

Mr Railton, Chairman of Trustees added “It is a great honour to be asked to take on this role.  James has done a fantastic job and I hope that I can continue the momentum he has created.  Enabling young people from all backgrounds to achieve their very best potential is a wonderful part of SATRO’s role.  Inspiring them with a passion for science, technology, engineering and mathematics is key to meeting a critical and worsening national skills shortage in those areas.”

Our new Patron, James Dubois initially worked with Beccy for three years as her Coach/Mentor during which time he helped her to shape the Board of Trustees to be fit to compete in a new world of Charity competitiveness. Beccy suggested that James might like to tackle the role of Chairman, which is a role he undertook with relish for three years. During that time, he oversaw SATRO’s biggest challenge - the survival of SATRO which had just lost all its central State funding (almost half total income).

Due to the generosity of various funders and the careful financial skills of the Trustee Board the financial deficit has steadily reduced. The published results for the year ended March 2015 showed a surplus which was a major achievement.

Over the period of James’ tenure, he has met many students who have had the benefit of being awakened and inspired by our staff and volunteers which confirm the vital work SATRO does.  James thanks all the staff and the Trustees for their many and varied contributions he believes that if we can give something back to the community then that is only as it should be.

James hopes to concentrate as a SATRO Patron on the role of liaising with major donors to keep them informed and in-touch, continuing to donate generously of their time and money whilst also spreading the word to their wider networks of additional potential financial supporters.

James is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants, and qualified in 1968 with top insolvency firm, Cork Gully.  In 2012, 40 years in public practice, he retired as Managing Partner of Body Dubois, a firm of Chartered Accountants specialising in different aspects of wealth creation, working mainly with owner-operated companies, professional partnerships and divisions of multi-nationals providing high levels of service on a personal basis.  He continues to work with the Firm as a Consultant.  He continues to serve as a Director or Consultant to various Companies and also some Pension Trustee Boards. Until 2011 he ran a Footdown Coaching/Mentoring Group for Chief Executives and Business Owners assisting them to improve their business and personal performance, involving Group mentoring issues as well as one-to-one personal coaching.  James has served as Chairman of Trustees since 2013 until 2015.  

Mathematician, Sir William Oughtred by Guest Blogger John Faulkner

In mathematics when "x" is used as shorthand for "multiply" thank Sir William Oughtred. He was rector of the Surrey village of Albury from 1603 to his death in 1660. A Fellow of Kings College Cambridge he taught mathematics free to anyone interested in the subject. One of his many students was Christopher Wren, the acclaimed architect of St Paul's Cathedral. He authored mathematics text books and these had other familiar terms such as Sin and Cos for the first time. His books were used by scientists such as Isaac Newton and Robert Boyle.

Sir William Oughtred's greatest contribution to STEM however, was to invent the Slide Rule. Four hundred years ago this year John Napier invented Logarithms making mathematical problems easier to solve. Using this, Oughtred inscribed logarithmic scales on two sliding wooden strips creating a powerful and simple calculating device. A slide rule is about the size of a ruler. By sliding the scales and aligning your numbers quick calculations can be made. Until the introduction of computers the slide rule was a fundamental science and engineering instrument. A slide rule needs no electricity or software and because of their simplicity were used by NASA as computer backup for the Apollo moon programme. Lunar Module pilot Buzz Aldrin took his slide rule with him to the moon and in 2007 it famously auctioned for $77,675.

So if you visit Albury remember that it was here, four hundred years ago, some of our common mathematical symbols were defined and a device invented that flew to the moon!

- John Faulkner

What is it like to complete a SATRO Extended Work Placement? Case Study by Toby Peterken

My name is Toby Peterken.  I am currently a student at Esher College.  For my AS year I studied maths, further maths, physics and philosophy and now, for my final year, I am continuing with maths, further maths and physics.   Following my A Levels, I am hoping to complete a degree in either physics or theoretical physics.  I aim to remain in academia - achieving a Ph.D. and then staying on as a research fellow and with any luck becoming a professor of physics. 

I heard about the SATRO placements through an email from college and applied for a placement for several reasons.  Obviously it looks amazing on a UCAS form or a CV, however that wasn’t my motivation.  My main draw to this placement was that it was the first opportunity I have had to make a real contribution.  With year 10 work experience placements or with 1 week summer academies you learn a lot, however you never seem to do any actual work, whereas my work at SSTL (Surrey Satellite Technologies Ltd) did matter – it was the first time this technique had been looked at on land in such significant amounts, so everything I did was new. 

My project was to analyse the data from a satellite to see if there were any correlations between the strength of GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite Systems) reflections and the landforms below and by doing this, see if there were any useful applications of this.  The first 2 weeks were spent mainly programming; I had to create the tools that mapped the data onto Google Earth.  Then we realised that there was too much data and the computer kept crashing, so I had to program another tool that allowed me to load only the data in a certain region.  Then I had to analyse the data, discovering correlation with different landforms below and showing that this technique could potentially be used for mapping deforestation.  I also got to reprogram the timing system for the receiver on the satellite.  

The main skill I learned was programming, this includes more than just learning what a particular line of code does.  I had to learn how to break down large problems into small tasks.  I learned how to go through and debug a program with rigour.  I wrote a program in my first week which, although it worked, was written inefficiently and it just felt messy, so during my last week I rewrote it.  From what I had learned initially, I was able to make the code more elegant and I completed it in much less time. I also understood what other job opportunities were on offer, as I had no idea how much variation there could be with applied physics.    

Dr Rebecca Bowden to become Heathrow Community Fund New Director

SATRO are pleased that Beccy Bowden will have the opportunity to assist Heathrow with their charitable plans. She has proved to be an outstanding leader of our Charity over the last seven years and indeed will continue in that role but with a reduced time commitment.

SATRO have a small but very focussed staff, supported by some 800 volunteers from all sectors across the county, enthusing 15,000 students each year with the career opportunities in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) subjects.

SATRO #STEMXAwards : Now Open For Applications!

Nominees and winners of 2014 Apprenticeship Awards

 with the 2014 High Sheriff Peter Lee

SATRO’s STEMX Awards are set to put Surrey’s talented young people centre stage.  Showcasing excellence in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), the awards will celebrate the excellent practice and opportunity which exist in the area and demonstrate what companies and young people are doing to reduce the skills shortages.

There is a fantastic heritage of innovation in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) in Surrey and the South East. A wealth of large and small to medium enterprises make the region an innovation powerhouse contributing to economic growth and development. Finding and nurturing the skills needed to fuel this growth can be a challenge, especially in STEM subjects. SATRO and the STEMX Awards are playing their part to help meet this challenge.

There are six Awards and applications are invited from businesses and individuals :

STEM Apprentice:

     - Individual achievement

     - Contribution to business

     - Progression

- Best STEM School leaver training programme

- Award for Business for working with schools to support the development of STEM skills  

- Best contribution to business from students undertaking a STEM work placement 

SATRO’s STEMX Awards build on the success of its Apprenticeship and Scholars Awards. Working with Surrey Chambers of Commerce and EH Enterprises, this year’s initiative will be even bigger and better.  With three new categories and a amazing array of talent on show, the awards will be an inspiration to young people and employers alike.

 

SATRO Chief Executive, Dr Beccy Bowden said “SATRO’s STEMX Awards seek to show case the wealth of STEM opportunities in our area through the Awards which we hope will encourage more young people to study STEM subjects and make the most of the many opportunities that exist ”

The Awards Ceremony will take place on 29^th September at the prestigious Living Planet Centre in Woking and the evening promises to be a fantastic celebration of science, engineering and innovation with opportunities to view examples of young people’s work in industry and listen to an inspirational speaker.

Details on each of the Award can be found on the SATRO website : http://www.satro.org.uk/#!stemx-awards/c1mli

or by emailing STEMX@satro.org.uk . The closing date for applications is Monday 6^th July, except for the Work Experience Award when the date is Friday 21st August.

Science in Primary Schools - Lucy Miguda

John Cridland, Director-General of the CBI recently said “How can we expect to inspire future generations of scientists and engineers if we don’t deliver high-quality and inspiring science lessons at primary school age?  If we are not careful, too many children will have lost interest in science before they reach their teens”.  SATRO is able to help teachers of whom over half say that primary science in schools is being squeezed out and that many teachers feel it is not a priority subject and many schools struggling to teach the recommended two hours per week.

Last year we worked with over 15,000 young people aged from 5 – 18 by delivering our inspirational hands on challenging and diverse programmes in schools.  Our programmes range from Fun Maths, Business Games, Career Speed Dating to ICT programming which are all delivered in an age appropriate manner utilising our 650 professional volunteers many of whom are from the science, technology, engineering and maths business sectors.

If you would like to know more about the programmes we run please contact lucy@satro.org.uk for more information.

EVER CONSIDERED A CAREER IN ASTRONOMY?

An astronomer uses a wide range of scientific techniques to study the universe. This would include its origin and its make-up. You could specialise in a particular area, such as planetary science or the formation of galaxies. If you love science and you are interested in stars, planets and the universe, this job could be just what you are looking for.

Astronomy is divided into two main areas – observational astronomy and theoretical astronomy.

In observational astronomy your work could include:

• Collecting data from satellites and spacecraft using radio and optical telescopes
• developing new instrumentation and maintaining existing equipment
• developing software to interpret the images captured by satellites
• analysing data and testing theories

In theoretical astronomy your work could include: 

• Creating complex computer models to develop theories on the physical processes happening in space
• Analysing the results of past observations to develop new predictions
• Making observations and testing theories
• Analysing data to help develop our understanding of events in the universe

·    

To be an astronomer you should have…

• Good powers of observation
• a methodical and logical approach to work
• the ability to work with abstract ideas and do complex calculations
• patience and determination to see a project through to completion
• good attention to detail
• the ability to analyse problems
• the ability to produce scientific reports for publication
• confidence to present your research findings
• strong IT skills
• the ability to develop good working relationships with colleagues around the world

To work as an astronomer you would usually need to begin with at least a BSc (Hons) degree (first or upper second class). Relevant subjects could include:

• Maths
• physics
• astrophysics
• geophysics
• astronomy
• space science

To do a degree, you will usually need five GCSEs (A-C) including maths, English and science, plus three A levels, including maths and physics. You should check with universities for exact entry requirements as other qualifications may also be accepted.

Funded PhD research students starting out can be awarded around £13,000 to £14,000 a year while they study.

Postdoctoral researchers or research fellows may earn from £29,000 to £36,000 a year.

Lecturers, professors and senior staff in research institutions could earn up to £60,000 or more.

(guideline figures only)

For more information:

https://nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk/advice/planning/jobprofiles/Pages/astronomer.aspx

http://www.jobs.ac.uk/categories/astronomy-jobs

http://www.scholastic.com/teachers/article/career-astronomer-cathy-imhoff

#ApprenticeshipWeek - BDO Accountancy Summer School

Like to find out what is involved in accountancy? BDO offer a summer school between 27^th July and 7^th August in London and Guildford. To apply you need you need  B in Maths and English at GCSE and min 280 predicted UCAS points. For more information http://www.bdoschoolleavers.co.uk/Summer-School-programme

#ApprenticeshipWeek - Allianz Training Programme

Predicted B in A level Maths? Not sure if University is for you? Allianz in Guildford offer a 3 year training programme leading to chartered status with the Chartered Institute of Insurance and a starting salary of £18,000. Email charlotte.bell@allianz.co.uk. For more information : https://www.allianz.co.uk/about-allianz-insurance/careers-at-allianz/technical-trainee-programme.html

Satro AS Maths Challenge - 24th February and 5th March 2015

SATRO hosted its annual AS Maths Challenge across two dates at local George Abbot School on Tuesday 24th February and Thursday 5th March 2015. This after school event is aimed at sixth forth students from schools around Surrey and neighbouring counties, and challenges them to tackle mathematical problems, including concepts taught at AS Level, as well as ideas which the students might expect to meet should they continue to study maths at degree level.

In addition to the challenge element, the students were treated to talks from staff at Unum and Allianz on how studying maths at university can be an excellent choice for a career, explaining that there is far more to maths than meets the eye.

The highest scoring teams from the two evenings were the Royal Grammar School Guildford and Barton Peveril Sixth form College who travelled from Eastleigh, Hampshire for the event. The teams scored 95% and 90.8% respectively.

The Maths Challenge has always been fantastically supported by schools, with extremely positive feedback from both staff and students. Less than 20% of students continue the study of mathematics beyond the age of 16, and so it is important to encourage those who do to consider taking their studies even further. SATRO very much hopes the event will inspire those who attended to continue studying mathematics into University by providing interesting and unique problems for the teams to solve.

SATRO, based at Surrey Research Park, provides skills training and workshops within schools in the county, particularly with careers in science, technology, engineering and maths.

Over the past 30 years SATRO has worked with more than 450,000 young people educated in Surrey. The charity offers a range of practical hands-on programmes that engage young people of all abilities aged four to 19. Visit www.satro.org.uk for more details. 

SATRO MATHS CHALLENGE 2015

This evening the SATRO AS Mathematics Challenge will be taking place at George Abbot School in Guildford. This is an after-school event where teams of five AS Mathematics students have two hours to tackle maths problems, including concepts they are taught at AS Level, as well as ideas which the students might expect to meet should they continue to study maths at degree level.

Less than 20% of students continue the study of mathematics beyond the age of 16, and so it is important to encourage those who do to consider taking their studies even further. SATRO very much hopes the event will inspire those attending to continue studying mathematics into University by providing interesting and unique problems for the teams to solve.

This event is extremely popular and this year will see nearly 200 students competing. Feedback from last year’s event included:

"The questions were challenging and sparked a couple of nice debates within the team which allowed for excellent teamwork."

"Good information about careers and very good mental challenge."

"The questions are a challenge for us, but they are surprisingly unique."

Visit our website for information about all of our upcoming challenges, www.satro.org.uk

SATRO NUMERACY DAYS - KEMPTON RACECOURSE 8TH DECEMBER 2014

 Today, groups from Therfield School, Bishop David Brown School & Magna Carta School are attending a Numeracy Day at Kempton Racecourse. During the day, the students will have an opportunity to set mathematical skills and knowledge into context through their application in daily working life. Exercises, contained a workbook given to students on the day, include a range of calculations based on what happens at a racecourse on race day. Activities include a behind-the-scenes appreciation of working in the weighing room, fence construction and angles of jump that are all based upon mathematical principles and associated calculations. These Numeracy Days are part of BHE&ST's Racing to School programme.

If you are interested in booking a similar event for a group of your own students, then please email amalee@satro.org.uk 

10 Reasons You Should Study STEM Subjects

SATRO’s vision is to inspire and enthuse young people about their future careers, by giving them as many possible glimpses into the working world throughout their journey through education – particularly in the STEM area (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths). So I’ve decided to compose a list of 10 reasons why we think you should be studying STEM subjects and here they are…

1. Young people with STEM qualifications are in demand in the job market and have good long term career prospects.

2. People with STEM skills can make a big contribution to many of the big challenges facing society today.

3. There are opportunities to work in various environments from field work to manufacturing plants, offices to labs, schools to hospitals, from deep oceans to outer space.

4. One of the great challenges of this time is the search for new energy resources. We have to lower our dependence on fossil fuels and find new renewable sources of energy, from wind to solar to wave power. Rising to this challenge is creating many new STEM based jobs for the future.

5. There is expected to be a 48% increase in demand for physical environmental science graduates in the next eight years.

6. There is a huge variety of exciting career paths open to people with STEM based skills.

7. People with STEM qualifications are very employable. Choosing STEM subjects opens up options later in life.

8. Chemistry and Physics graduates will earn on average over 30% more during their working lifetimes than other A-level holders.

9. Most science and engineering companies provide training opportunities and map out long term career paths.

10. There is a demand for people with STEM skills globally; careers can often include the opportunity for international travel.