Services for Young People Hertfordshire Services for Young People

New ‘Access to All’ programme promotes STEM careers in Stevenage

31 October 2023

Services for Young People has partnered with Mission 44 to launch the ‘Access to All’ programme, aiming to inspire more young people in Stevenage to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM).

Young woman of colour working as an engineer


Mission 44 is a charity dedicated to a more inclusive future for young people from diverse backgrounds. It aims to open doors to careers in STEM, motorsports and creative industries, empowering young people and inspiring change.

The Services for Young People (SfYP) Access to All programme is funded and supported by Mission 44 for the 2023-2024 academic year. It aims to increase Stevenage students’ awareness of the wide range of exciting STEM employment opportunities available in the local area. Despite the town hosting many businesses in the STEM sector, including world-leaders in aerospace, engineering, electronics and pharmaceuticals, many local young people don’t currently consider careers in these industries.

By working with local schools and employers, the programme aims to make STEM career pathways more inclusive and help address diversity and inclusion gaps. In line with the Hertfordshire Skills and Employment Strategy, SfYP will provide valuable learning and networking opportunities, creating a confident, resilient and motivated future workforce.

SfYP has begun to deliver a programme of engaging activities to 50 students in Year 9 at five Stevenage schools, covering a range of STEM careers, entry routes and required qualifications. The SfYP STEM Talent Mentor has organised workshops, projects, workplace visits, and presentations on employment and learning options after the age of 16. These activities and experiences will help young people to make informed decisions about subject choices for their GCSEs that would support a future career in STEM. As part of the programme, parents and carers will also have opportunities to increase their knowledge of STEM careers and pathways.

Read more about SfYP’s Access to All programme.

Other ways SfYP supports young people to get into jobs, education & training