The 2023/24 academic year was our busiest yet, with 850 Chats booked for over 8000 students.
Thanks to the scientists, funders, and teachers who got involved, we engaged thousands of students from schools across the UK.
A year ago, we changed our delivery format. This has been key in allowing teachers to match bookings to their curriculum, at times that suit their classes. Following the introduction of a wide range of year-round themes across STEM topics, teachers have been making the most of the flexibility to incorporate activities into their teaching.
“The flexibility of the new format allowed us to participate in discussions that were directly relevant to our curriculum.”
– Teacher
We’re now seeing the benefits, with schools like Northfleet School for Girls embracing this opportunity. They booked an Ecosystems, Ecology, and Habitats themed Chat to build a foundation for students ahead of their Ecology topic.
We’re continuing to increase capacity, with over 600 STEM professionals now active across I’m a Scientist, I’m an Engineer, I’m a Mathematician, and I’m a Computer Scientist.
Whether newly registered or seasoned participants, we’re developing and improving the experience for all scientists. There’s greater flexibility, with more control over Chat invites already in place. Coming soon, the ability to add accepted Chats to work calendars too.
“It’s very different from engagement activities I’m usually involved with. […] I’m a Scientist is a great opportunity to learn new communication techniques, thinking how to deliver key environmental messages for example.”
– Andrew L, Scientist
The I’m a… projects are changing how scientists build their engagement skills through participation, supported by The Academy now running throughout the year.
This greater capacity has allowed schools, like first-time participants Whitley Bay High School, to go on to connect with 92 scientists across the year. More themes to choose from, and a larger pool of people to connect with, brings diversity in roles, backgrounds, experiences and interests. In seeing this, students find confidence and encouragement that STEM is something ‘for them’.
📈 Bringing diversity in STEM to even more students
“I like that we are reaching different students with the Chat-based format and I found every session interesting and utterly absorbing.”
– Paul S, Scientist
I’m a Scientist allows scientists to connect with schools that don’t normally get the chance to engage. Our efforts to widen participation and reach underserved communities continue to make a difference. 75% of students participating are in a priority group; from schools with either above average free school meals provision, or more than 30 minutes from a higher education institution.
We’re supporting teachers to provide sustained, year-round engagement to distant and often inaccessible schools, like Aith Junior High in Shetland. We’re seeing them book multiple themes to reflect their current learning – after successful Chats on Forensics, Health, Genetics, and more, Derby College are returning soon to chat about The Truth About Food.
📆 More to come in 2025
We’re building on last year’s success with an exciting lineup of events and opportunities. You might already be aware that we’re continuing our relationship with the Ri to complement their CHRISTMAS LECTURES. The Truth About Food Chats are already happening, and conversations continuing in classrooms with a new Debate Kit and lesson plan.
✏️Dates for your diary:
- We’ll be connecting students with current and former apprentices during National Apprenticeship Week (10 to 14 February) to show the variety of opportunities and routes into STEM available.
- We’ll be celebrating International Day of Women and Girls in Science with all-female Chats on 11 February.
- Safer Internet Day (11 February) will provide a great chance for primary school students to practice online communication and safety through I’m a Computer Scientist.
- 7 to 16 March is British Science Week – we’re creating capacity for nearly 400 classes during that week alone!