Discover Engineering Initiatives

University Programmes

These are programmes run by universities to encourage applications to engineering courses. The majority of these have eligibility criteria as they aim to support the students who are under-represented at university.

KCL K+ Natural, Mathematical and Engineering Science Stream

K+ is a two-year programme designed for less advantaged year 12 students in London and parts of Essex. To attend you must be a first-generation university student and attend a non-selective state school. It includes university taster days, work experience, and academic support for A levels.

- Check it out here: https://kplus.uk/

KCL Success for Black Engineers Programme

Designed for black students in Years 9-12, this programme offers information sessions and support in other areas such as finding placements.

- Check it out here: https://www.kcl.ac.uk/bmeis/blackengineers

Access to Sheffield (STEM)

The programme explores the different Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) degree options through welcome days, activities and a residential summer school. It is aimed at groups currently under-represented in higher education.

- Check it out here: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/schools/programmes/years12-13/stem

University of York - Year 12 Work Experience

This 4-day mix of online and in-person activities offers a great way to discover what studying physics or engineering at university is like and is a great addition to a university application.

- Check it out here: https://www.york.ac.uk/physics-engineering-technology/outreach/sixthform/work-experience/

University of Warwick - Pathways to Engineering

This two year cohort programme for Year 12 and Year 13 students provides Opportunities such as: meeting and networking with professionals within the Engineering sector, finding out more about careers and attending Engineering taster lectures. This programme is also for less advantaged students, check the website for criteria.

- Check it out here: https://warwick.ac.uk/study/outreach/whatweoffer/pathwaystoengineering/

Strathclyde Engineering Scholars

This programme supports young people from underrepresented groups to access a university engineering education by providing regular personal or small group academic tutoring and coaching, and mentoring from current students and professional engineers.

- Check it out here: https://www.strath.ac.uk/engineering/outreach/strathclydeengineeringscholars/

Nuffield Research Placements

A two week-long summer placement organised by Stem Learning across the UK, giving students the chance to explore a research project in a fully funded experience. The scheme is for students from less advantaged backgrounds.

- Check it out here: https://www.nuffieldfoundation.org/students-teachers/nuffield-research-placements

STEMPoint Research Placements & Experience

Research Placements offer students in Year 12 (aged 17-18) the opportunity to work alongside scientists, engineers, mathematicians and technologists for 2 weeks of their summer holiday.

- Check it out here: https://www.stempoint.org.uk/research-placements-experience

Non Engineering-Specific Initiatives

Whilst not specific to engineering, these initiatives are all free of charge and provide some amazing support and resources.

Zero Gravity Tutoring

For state school students in the UK, this growing platform offers mentoring, masterclasses, scholarships and a digital community to improve access to top universities and careers.

- Check it out here: https://www.zerogravity.co.uk/

Black Excellence Network

The Black Excellence Network aims to increase participation of black students in their dream universities though mentorship, admissions advice and a community platform.

- Check it out here: https://blackexcellencenetwork.co.uk

Other Access Initiatives

• The Oxbridge Launchpad: Mentorship programme, learning resources and competitions at https://www.oxbridgelaunchpad.com/.

• Unireach: Provide 1-to-1 help for aspiring Oxbridge students from less advantaged backgrounds at https://www.unireach.co.uk/

• The Access Project: Mentoring and support programme at https://theaccessproject.org.uk/

• Aspiring Professionals Programme: Mentoring and support programme at https://www.socialmobility.org.uk/student/

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