Longford people and firms invited to join unique career pathways experience programme
STEM Passport for Inclusion is inviting employers across Longford to sign up to its work experience programme and support the next generation of talent.
Longford people and businesses are being invited to join an innovative career pathways and experience programme ‘supporting the next generation of talent’.
The STEM Passport for Inclusion is a program aimed at addressing inequalities in access to STEM education and careers, with a particular focus on under-served communities.
It focuses on empowering learners, especially female secondary school students, by providing them with a university-accredited STEM skills module and mentorship opportunities with industry professionals.
STEM Passport for Inclusion is inviting employers across Longford to sign up to its work experience programme and support the next generation of talent by offering meaningful Transition Year work placements.
Led by Prof Katriona O’Sullivan at Maynooth University’s National Centre for Inclusive Higher Education, STEM Passport for Inclusion is funded by Research Ireland, the Department of Education and Youth and Microsoft, as well as by many industry and education partners.
The programme aims to tackle persistent inequalities in access to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education and career pathways.
In Longford, students from Ballymahon Vocational School, Ballymahon; Mercy Secondary School, Ballymahon; Lanesborough Community College, Lanesboro; St Mel’s College Secondary School, Deanscurragh; Meán Scoil Mhuire, Townparks; Ardscoil Phadráig, Granard; and Moyne Community School, Moyne are among those taking part in the programme, benefitting from access to STEM learning opportunities, mentoring, and work experience placements.
Professor Katriona O'Sullivan, Founder of STEM Passport for Inclusion, said, "Every young person deserves the opportunity to explore their potential.
“We know that talent exists in every town and community across Ireland, but access to opportunities is not always equal.
“By working with employers, of all sizes, across the different regions, we can help students gain valuable experience, broaden their horizons and build confidence in pursuing future education and career pathways."
Work experience forms a key part of the STEM Passport for Inclusion programme, helping students connect classroom learning with real-world careers.
Placements also allow employers to engage with the next generation of talent while supporting efforts to create a more inclusive and diverse future workforce.
Businesses of all sizes are encouraged to get involved.
Opportunities may include shadowing experiences, workplace visits, project-based learning or structured work experience placements across a variety of sectors.
Participating employers receive practical support from the STEM Passport for Inclusion team, including a best practice guide, a pack of workplace activities, and access to training on creating inclusive work experience placements.
Employers interested in supporting the programme can learn more by visiting STEM Passport for Inclusion Work Experience form or by contacting [email protected].