Opening Doors to STEM Careers in Cornwall

In May 2024, the Engineering Development Trust were awarded with a grant of £2,000 from the Carew Pole Charitable Trust to develop a new ‘Virtual Routes into STEM’ course which offered 30 young people aged 12–15 in South-East Cornwall the opportunity to explore the world of science, technology, engineering, and maths.

This innovative virtual programme was designed to inspire the next generation of STEM professionals by showcasing the diverse pathways available after the age of 16. Through sector-specific modules, live Q&A sessions with early-career STEM professionals, interactive challenges, and application support, participants gained valuable insight into future education and career opportunities.

Over the course, young people discovered the breadth of roles within STEM — from physical sciences and technology to life sciences and sustainability — helping them build confidence and a clear understanding of how to pursue a STEM career.

Addressing the Need in South-East Cornwall

For many young people in Cornwall, particularly those from low-income or rural backgrounds, access to high-quality careers advice and work experience remains limited.

Despite possessing the ability and determination to succeed, students from lower-income families are less likely to receive tailored career guidance or benefit from family networks that can open professional doors. Research shows that these young people achieve lower GCSE results and are less likely to attend university compared with their peers (IFS, 2022). Within STEM specifically, they remain under-represented — only 21% of engineers, 15% of STEM academics, and 9% of life scientists come from working-class backgrounds (Sutton Trust, 2022).

Through a flexible, virtual approach, this programme aims to remove barriers to participation — particularly for those with caring responsibilities, limited transport options, or financial challenges. The initiative will focus on areas including St Austell, Mevagissey, Liskeard, Saltash, Polperro, Looe, and Lostwithiel, where rural isolationLack of access to people, services and transportation due to rural location. and deprivation can significantly restrict access to opportunity.

Proven Impact and Positive Outcomes

The organisation supported 30 students from Torpoint Community College and Looe Community College through a hands-on STEM experience with Babcock International.

Students visited Babcock’s marine site, took part in practical STEM challenges, and engaged with early-career apprentices from their local area. The event provided a first-hand look at potential career pathways and inspired students to consider STEM-related futures.

Through this initiative, the organisation will bridge the opportunity gap, ensuring that young people, regardless of background or location, can see a future for themselves in science, technology, engineering, or maths.

Teacher feedback reflected the enthusiasm and engagement shown by the students:
“It was with pride that I watched them engage with the tour and the activity so well. Students found it inspiring and have decided that Babcock is now a very serious option for their future plans. I would jump at the chance to do this again.”

The results:
91% of participants reported increased confidence in their career choices
99% said their awareness of STEM opportunities at university had improved
86% felt the skills and knowledge gained would positively impact their future studies or careers

About the Funder

The Carew Pole Charitable Trust support projectsA piece of work that delivers an output., ideally to provide long term impacts, that help people who are in need.

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