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What is the STEM Clubs Network?

STEMNET

The STEM Clubs Network is managed by STEMNET on behalf of DCSF. It allows all secondary schools in the country to be able to access the very latest in best practice information, professional advice, shared resources, key contacts and personal support. It's all about clubs!

Schools are encouraged to affiliate to the STEM Clubs Network, whether they have an established club or are starting out from scratch. Membership is also available to schools that are running single discipline clubs (e.g. Chemistry club or Engineering club) or are part of a recognised clubs scheme such as Young Engineers.

Club leaders can access case studies and information via the website to assist them in exploring cross-curricular working opportunities.

The overall aim is to help pupils gain a wider perspective of how the STEM subjects interlink and relate to the real world. Emphasis is also being placed on the importance of enhancing the professional.

Evidence from the After-Schools Science and Engineering Clubs (ASSECs) pilot recognises that professional development of club leaders has contributed to successful clubs around the country.

Furthermore, teachers have been able to make use of their club experiences in their own teaching and learning.

STEM Clubs network website

  • The STEM Clubs network website was launched for the autumn term 2009.
  • The website is open to all schools and will allow for networking and sharing of club resources tools by both teachers and students involved in the clubs.
  • Any school interested in running a STEM Club will have access to a range of information, guidance and experience from other schools already running clubs.
  • Those signing-up and registering on the site can create a public profile of the club at their school, which allows them to publicise their club activities and projects.
  • Students can maintain a blog of activities and assist with maintaining their school's area on the website.
  • The website has been designed based on feedback from teachers - both those already running DCSF-funded After School Science and Engineering Clubs and non-club teachers - and students.

STEM Clubs network - support

The STEM Clubs network was officially launched on 8th July. In Autumn 2009, schools are being made aware of the network, the benefits to affiliating to it and of the website and associated resources. In return for affiliation to the STEM Clubs network, schools will have access to a range of benefits, including:

  • Free frameworks and guides to 'starting a STEM club', 'running a STEM club' and 'developing a STEM club'.
  • Access to free-of-charge CPD - both via the web and in person through the Science Learning Centres or other partners.
  • Personal introduction to local contact point (generally the organisation holding the STEMPOINT contract) to advise them on appropriate STEM activities and support.
  • Personal introduction to local contact point for STEM Ambassadors.
  • Invitations to engage in specific challenges and events supplied by the network resource partners.
  • Networking and best practice events at local, regional and nationwide levels to share experience and ideas.