History & Facts

The precursor to the STEM Clubs Network was the After School Science and Engineering Clubs (ASSECs) programme.

The ASSECs programme was created by the Government in March 2006 to inspire Key Stage 3 students (ages 11-14) to learn and enjoy science and engineering in an extra-curricular setting. This was in direct response to the concerns of employers regarding a shortage of science and technology skills within the workforce. Originally, 250 clubs piloted the scheme. This expanded to 500 clubs in September 2008 due to its notable success.

A consortium of partners was involved in the ASSECs pilot. The partners included:

  • The Association for Science Education - www.ase.org.uk
    Providing Field Officer support for the Clubs Coordinator
     
  • British Science Association - www.britishscienceassociation.org
    Employing a dedicated Clubs Coordinator and developing a Clubs website.
     
  • Association for Science and Discovery Centres - www.sciencecentres.org.uk
    Developing a Clubs-specific handbook on how to run a science and engineering club
     
  • Network of Science Learning Centres - www.sciencelearningcentres.org.uk
    Providing Club leaders and teachers with Clubs-specific training
     
  • Specialist Schools and Academies Trust - www.ssatrust.org.uk
    Providing expertise on science and technology specialist schools


STEMNET manages the project on behalf of the consortium and acts as a primary contact for schools.

If you are currently running or considering a club at your school and would like up to date information and support, then please visit the STEM Clubs Website www.stemclubs.net