Challenging gender stereotypes in STEM

Resources for the classroom help girls learn about female role models in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects and support their aspirations and subject choices.

Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects are still largely dominated by boys and young men. By not choosing these subjects, and the careers that follow, girls’ are losing out on earnings and opportunities. What’s more, the day to day world around us that benefits from STEM is missing out on the vital input women bring to the work they do.

Decades of work by educators to change this situation is working, more girls are choosing STEM subjects. But there is still a long way to go to tackle negative gender stereotypes that hold girls and non-binary students back from choosing STEM subjects.

Breaking down stereotypes – role models for girls in STEM

The NEU and Stemettes held a joint webinar on 3 March 2022 to launch these resources in advance of International Women's Day. Key speakers included Dr Anne-Marie Imafidon MBE, CEO and Founder of Stemettes and Countdown Mathematician, along with Adesua, a young Stemettes Society member and Heather McKenzie, Women's Organising Forum.