STEM SMART- Cambridge University's Free Programme for State School Students

Summary:

• STEM SMART is a free 17-month programme by Cambridge University

• Supports UK state school students in STEM subjects

• Offers online tuition, mentoring, and a residential stay at Cambridge

• Aims to bridge attainment gaps and encourage applications to top universities

• Targets students from disadvantaged backgrounds or underrepresented groups

• Covers subjects like Engineering, Computer Science, Physical and Biological Sciences

• Applications open annually on 1 September

STEM SMART: Cambridge University's Free Programme Empowering State School Students

The University of Cambridge has launched an ambitious initiative to support talented state school students in their pursuit of STEM education. The STEM SMART (Subject Mastery and Attainment Raising Tuition) programme is a groundbreaking effort to bridge educational gaps and foster diversity in higher education.

Programme Overview

STEM SMART is a comprehensive 17-month programme designed to complement A-level studies in mathematics and science subjects. It begins in January of Year 12 and continues through to the end of Year 13, providing consistent support throughout this crucial period of academic development.

The programme is structured in three phases:

1. Consolidating Knowledge and Building Problem-Solving Skills (January to July)

2. Preparing for Application to Competitive Universities (September to December)

3. Securing Strong Examination Performance and Achievement (January to May)

Each phase is tailored to address specific needs of students as they progress through their A-levels and university application process.

Eligibility and Selection

STEM SMART targets students from UK state schools who have experienced educational disadvantage or belong to groups underrepresented in higher education. The programme has specific academic criteria, including minimum GCSE grades in Mathematics and Science subjects.

Non-academic criteria are also considered, such as:

• Residence in areas with low higher education participation

• Eligibility for free school meals or similar support

• Care experience

• Attendance at underperforming schools

• Refugee or asylum seeker status

Support Offered

Participants in STEM SMART receive a wealth of resources and opportunities:

• Weekly online tutorials and problem-solving sessions

• Small group supervisions with Cambridge academics

• Mentoring from current Cambridge students

• A four-day residential programme at Cambridge University

• Guidance on university applications and UCAS personal statements

Impact and Reach

Since its inception, STEM SMART has seen overwhelming interest from students across the UK. In its first year, the programme received nearly 1,500 applications and expanded its initial capacity to accommodate 908 students.

The initiative has successfully reached students from diverse backgrounds, including those from schools with little history of sending students to Cambridge. This broad reach aligns with the University's commitment to widening participation in higher education.

Mentoring Component

A unique aspect of STEM SMART is its mentoring programme, which pairs participants with current Cambridge students. These mentors, many of whom come from similar backgrounds as the sixth formers, provide invaluable insights into university life and the application process.

Mentors meet with their mentees every two weeks, discussing topics ranging from bursary options to personal statement writing. This long-term relationship allows for a deeper connection and more comfortable environment for students to ask questions and seek advice.

The mentoring component not only benefits the sixth formers but also provides a rewarding experience for the Cambridge students involved. Many mentors express a desire to give back and provide the guidance they wish they had received during their own application process.

Academic Support

The academic support provided by STEM SMART is comprehensive and tailored to each student's needs. Weekly online tutorials cover key topics in physics, mathematics, and chemistry, complementing the students' school curriculum.

As the programme progresses, these sessions evolve into small group supervisions, mirroring the teaching style at Cambridge. This approach not only enhances students' subject knowledge but also familiarises them with university-level learning methods.

Residential Experience

A highlight of the STEM SMART programme is the four-day residential stay at Cambridge University. This immersive experience allows students to:

• Attend lectures and workshops led by Cambridge academics

• Participate in practical laboratory sessions

• Experience life in a Cambridge college

• Network with fellow participants and current students

• Gain insights into the application process and interview techniques

This residential component is crucial in demystifying the Cambridge experience and building students' confidence in their ability to thrive in such an environment.

Widening Participation Goals

STEM SMART is part of Cambridge University's broader efforts to widen participation in higher education, particularly in STEM fields. The programme aims to address several key issues:

• Educational disadvantage: By providing additional resources and support, STEM SMART helps level the playing field for students who may not have access to extensive STEM education in their schools.

• Underrepresentation: The programme actively seeks to engage students from groups traditionally underrepresented in STEM fields at top universities.

• Attainment gaps: Through targeted academic support, STEM SMART aims to help students achieve the grades necessary for competitive university applications.

• Confidence building: By exposing students to university-level teaching and the Cambridge environment, the programme helps build confidence in their abilities and aspirations.

Future Prospects

As STEM SMART enters its second year, it continues to evolve and expand its impact. The programme's success demonstrates the significant demand for additional support in STEM subjects among state school students. It serves as a model for how universities can actively engage in addressing educational inequalities and nurturing talent from all backgrounds.

The long-term goal of STEM SMART is not only to increase the number of state school students applying to Cambridge but also to boost the overall number of students from diverse backgrounds entering STEM fields at top universities across the UK.

FAQs

Q1: Who is eligible for the STEM SMART programme?

A1: UK state school students considering STEM subjects at university, who meet specific academic criteria and have experienced educational disadvantage or belong to underrepresented groups in higher education.

Q2: How much does it cost to participate in STEM SMART?

A2: The programme is entirely free for eligible students.

Q3: When do applications for STEM SMART open?

A3: Applications typically open on 1 September each year.

Q4: What subjects does STEM SMART cover?

A4: The programme supports students in Engineering, Computer Science, Physical Sciences (e.g., physics, chemistry), and Biological Sciences.

Q5: Does participating in STEM SMART guarantee admission to Cambridge University?

A5: While participation does not guarantee admission, it aims to better prepare students for applications to competitive universities, including Cambridge.

Q6: Can students from independent schools apply for STEM SMART?

A6: The main programme is for state school students, but there is an alternative provision for independent school students through the Isaac Physics mentoring scheme.

Q7: How does the residential programme work?

A7: Eligible students are invited to a four-day residential stay at Cambridge University, typically in August, to experience university life and receive intensive tuition.

Q8: What kind of mentoring do students receive?

A8: Participants are assigned Cambridge student mentors who provide guidance on university life, course selection, and the application process.

Q9: How does STEM SMART support students with their A-level studies?

A9: The programme offers weekly online tutorials, problem-solving sessions, and small group supervisions to complement school studies.

Q10: What is the success rate of STEM SMART participants in university admissions?

A10: While specific success rates are not published, the programme aims to significantly improve participants' chances of admission to top universities in STEM fields.

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Official Website: https://www.undergraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/stem-smart