Why have the Directories been created?

The Directories have been created in direct response to teachers’ needs. Research has shown that there are an extraordinary and vibrant range of projects, programmes and initiatives which have as their aim the support and improvement of STEM education in schools and colleges.

However, the absence of a single point of reference and a consistent approach on the part of providers of all these activities means that the sheer scale and variety of provision is daunting.

Teachers and lecturers have said that they need:

• A one-stop shop approach
• Clear coordination and signposting of support and resources which they can trust
• Events or experiences that cannot be delivered with school contacts and resources
• Schemes and activities that are relevant to them and their students
• Ways to tie these to the curriculum so that the impact and outcomes can be sustained
• Links with industry that makes the curriculum relevant

The Directories aim simply to provide clear, easily accessible information for schools and colleges, with enough detail for teachers to identify quickly and easily the activities and support that are likely to meet their needs.