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STEM Frequently Asked Questions

How do I become a STEM Ambassador?
It is a straight forward process all you need to do is go to http://www.stemnet.org.uk/register.cfm and register on line. This is a quick and simple questionnaire and once it has been submitted you will receive an email or correspondence from us inviting you to a suitable training date.

What will the training involve?
The training is an induction into working in schools and will include hands on activities for you to take part in. It will also give you an insight into to working in schools and a basic overview of the curriculum. This is the ideal opportunity for you to ask any questions and raise any concerns you may have. You will also complete an Enhanced CRB which usually takes 3-4 weeks to be processed.

Do I have to commit to a certain number of activities per year?
No all we ask is that all Ambassadors participate in at least 1 activity per year

Will I be asked to use my specialist knowledge as an Ambassador?
Not always some activities will require this and if so you will be approached directly because of your expertise. As there are a range of activities available some may not require any specialist input.

Will I be left unsupervised at any point if I am delivering an activity?
No you should never be left unsupervised and should always have a teacher or practitioner in attendance during the session.

What types of activities can I get involved in?
There are a range of activities that you can support these are just a few: Career talks, Mentoring, Mock interviews, Practical challenges, Demonstration, Acting as a judge, Supporting a STEM club etc…. These are just a few and there is something for everyone.

How will I hear about events and activities that I can get involved in?
For the majority of activities you will be contacted directly by telephone or email. This will give you an opportunity to hear first hand about the type of event and the input needed. An e-newsletter is sent out to all Ambassadors from STEMNET approximately 3-4 times per year.

Where do I record or report on the activities I have been involved in?
It is important that you add any events or activities you have supported onto the STEM database (you will be told about this at training). This helps create a true picture of the level of activity in the local area from all the Ambassadors.

What are the new 14-19 Diplomas?
The diploma is a new and exciting qualification available for 14-19 year olds. There will be 17 diploma lines available by 2013 at 3 different levels: Foundation, Higher and Advanced.

The new qualification will allow young people to learn in a different way and have more input from local employers and partners. The course may involved a variety of the following: guest speakers, real life project briefs, working on relevant case studies, working with a mentor from industry, visits out in the workplace and work placements.

There are STEM links to many Diploma lines that can be supported by STEM Ambassadors: click on the diploma link for more information.

• Construction and the Built Environment
• Creative and Media
• Engineering
• Information Technology
• Society, Health and Development
• Business, Administration and Finance
• Environmental and Land-based studies
• Hair and Beauty Studies
• Manufacturing and Product Design
• Sport and Leisure 

More information on the new Diplomas is available at: http://yp.direct.gov.uk/diplomas/subjects