CityFibre helps to inspire next generation of digital innovators with STEM Learning partnership

CityFibre, the UK’s largest independent full fibre network, has partnered with STEM Learning, a leading provider of education and careers support in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), to help bring learning to life in classrooms throughout the UK.

CityFibre has committed £150,000 over a three-year period into various STEM Learning modules, benefiting over 80 schools within the Project Gigabit footprint. These modules will include Computer Clusters, I Belong, and ENTHUSE Partnerships, which will each respectively, improve the delivery of computer science and IT lessons for all students, encourage and enable girls to pursue a career in STEM, and develop young people’s awareness and understanding of STEM subjects.

The partnership will also offer additional KS1 and KS2 resources through Explorify¹ available to all teachers nationwide and create opportunities for students to explore and understand careers in STEM, plus CityFibre employees will volunteer their time to host assemblies and webinars to educate young people on career paths within the industry. Known for its impact on teaching and learning, STEM Learning’s programmes are highly effective in elevating the quality of education and prospects for young people across the country.

It is estimated that by 2030, there will be a shortage of around one million engineers across the UK². Historically, there have been barriers for young people to thrive in STEM subjects, such as lack of confidence in STEM subjects or lack of extra support in these subjects, and subsequently, STEM careers have seen a decline in interest amongst young people³. CityFibre, with STEM Learning, aims to address these challenges by showcasing how enriching and accessible STEM careers can be.

This partnership with STEM Learning is a key component of CityFibre's broader ESG initiative, reflecting its dedication to social responsibility by investing in the education and future of young people.

Stacey King, Senior Partnership Manager at CityFibre, said: "We believe in the power of technology and education to transform lives and, with this partnership, we aim to bridge the digital skills gap and help inspire the next generation of digital innovators to pursue a career in STEM.

“Our partnership with STEM Learning underlines CityFibre's social value commitments and, as part of the Project Gigabit programme, we are investing in the future and equipping young people with the skills they need to thrive in a digital world."

Mayaz Rahman, STEM Learning’s Head of Fundraising, said: “Partnerships like this are exactly the reason I joined STEM Learning. CityFibre’s very welcome and generous donation to our ENTHUSE Charitable Trust allows us to work together on this dynamic three-year plan to transform the prospects and outlook of thousands of young people.”

In the coming months, CityFibre will also embark on a mission to enhance the communities it serves by investing in local biodiversity programmes and establishing community funds. The partnership with STEM Learning and upcoming community initiatives underscores CityFibre’s commitment to making a tangible difference in society. Through demonstrating a commitment to social value, CityFibre is determined to create a positive impact and contribute to a more sustainable future.

1. https://explorify.uk/why-explorify
2. https://www.imeche.org/news/news-article/shortfall-of-1m-engineers-threatens-uk-infrastructure-projects
3. https://www.stem.org.uk/all-news/young-people-show-declining-aspirations