Ten of our Year 10 pupils have recently completed their first year of the ICanToo Programme with the REACT Foundation. The REACT Foundation is a STEM-based organisation which helps West Cumbrian young people to:
– have raised aspirations, through schemes helping them realise their potential in STEM subjects;
– see the range of STEM-related careers available;
– appreciate the excitement and challenge of work and study in this field.
ICanToo is a programme of inspirational, educational, and unique experiences in STEM subjects starting in Year 9, continuing in to Year 10 and Year 11. Activities include trips away to STEM-related local and national locations, regular mentoring, and guest lectures from inspirational speakers and role models.
Local engineers run and support activities and the gap between school STEM subjects and real-world application is bridged, demonstrating the future opportunities available. This aims to tackle the fact that while west Cumbria is rich in STEM careers, young west Cumbrians are under-represented in the labour market.
Mrs Kelso said:
“Students have thoroughly enjoyed the programme and have had fantastic visits to The University of Cumbria, CREATEC, Kepplewray, Manchester TIS and Lakes College.”
Kirby Johnston from REACT Engineering said:
“We had some great feedback from the University of Cumbria staff and organisers who said the students were so polite and well behaved during the sessions and they did so well, answering questions and during the practical session, they were a credit to the school and the Foundation.”
