Funded by the Royal Academy of Engineering this project was led by Dr Clare Gartland, now our NERUPI Co Convenor working with Tuba Gokpinar along with teachers engaged in STEM subjects.

There is a pressing need to provide school-aged students, particularly students traditionally underrepresented in these subject areas, with a more comprehensive understanding of science technology, engineering and maths (STEM) subjects. School students need to be more effectively engaged with STEM subjects and informed about the importance of STEM knowledge and skills in everyday life, as well as aware of their value and significance for future careers. To achieve this, teachers need support to develop the knowledge, skills and STEM efficacy so they can implement changes in school practices and develop approaches that promote inclusive engagement and challenge existing patterns of participation. STEM teacher continuing professional development (CPD) and professional learning communities or networks present practical and cost-effective ways to promote such approaches. Connecting STEM Teachers (CST) was a national programme developed and led by the Royal Academy of Engineering (the Academy) that ran from September 2011 to July 2023. This report brings together findings about how to build effective STEM teacher networks to support teachers’ professional development and aims to support policymakers, school leaders, and STEM and other organisations wanting to facilitate teacher professional development by building teacher communities and networks.

Using STEM teacher networks in teacher professional development