The in2scienceUK1 team who run the In2STEM programme has today received the Athena Prize from the Royal Society for their work to promote social mobility and diversity in science, technology engineering and mathematics (STEM).
The team were recognised ‘for their longstanding commitment to and proven impact in supporting young people from low socio-economic backgrounds to pursue STEM careers.’2 The Athena Prize is awarded biennially to teams who have contributed most to the advancement of diversity in STEM within their communities.
The In2STEM programme, formerly known as the In2science summer programme, works to unlock the potential of young people from underrepresented backgrounds in Year 12 (or equivalent) across the UK by offering a range of activities over the summer holidays, including online skills workshops and a funded work experience placement.
The team work to deliver this programme to help build up the skills, knowledge and confidence that participants need to explore an education and career in STEM. And it’s proven to have a tangible impact on the futures of those who take part – according to our programme analysis last year, 92% of past participants went on to undertake a university degree and 99% of these were in a STEM subject3.
Once students have completed the In2STEM programme, they can continue to receive support from In2scienceUK via the In2careers platform, which offers exclusive networking, mentoring and career development opportunities.
Anishta Shegobin, Head of Programmes for In2scienceUK, said: “We are honoured to receive the Athena Prize and I’m delighted at the recognition of the team’s hard work and dedication to keep the In2STEM programme running every year for our beneficiaries across the UK. I would like to thank the Royal Society for this award; it will help strengthen our work to empower young people from lower socioeconomic backgrounds to pursue education and careers in STEM.”
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Notes
- In2scienceUK is an award-winning charitable organisation which aims to empower young minds and enhance social mobility and diversity in STEM. Read our organisational strategy in full here.
- Read the Royal Society’s announcement in full here.
- Statistics are taken from the In2STEM impact report 2023, which you can access here.
Special thanks to Hannah Newman