At Robert's suggestion, RAF Brize Norton has agreed to provide support for Carterton Community College to enrich their students’ school experience, with a particular focus on providing Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) support.
The Station and the College have drawn up a ‘STEM Partnership Plan 2019-20’, which sets out an extensive and ambitious programme of collaboration between the two, including STEM Assemblies and Careers Taster Days.
Robert recently met with Carterton Community College’s Senior Leadership Team, including the College’s new Headteacher, Chris Hart, together with Wing Commander Sean O’Sullivan, who is leading the Station’s work with the College, to discuss progress with the partnership and to formally launch the plan.
Commenting on the collaboration between Brize Norton and Carterton College, Wing Commander Sean O’Sullivan RAF said: “This partnership enables RAF Brize Norton to raise awareness of STEM based careers in order to develop a highly skilled and technologically competent future UK workforce.
“To achieve this, Brize Norton will, through its Whole Force mentoring initiative, provide Carterton Community College students with bespoke challenges, targeted experiences and exposure to STEM roles.
“Through this partnership, RAF Brize Norton will seek to inspire and engage the next generation in STEM subjects.”
Chris Hart, Headteacher of Carterton Community College, said: “We are proud to be working with the RAF and their partners to add real value to the education of our students. By exposing them to real-life role models, jobs and practical examples of their study we hope they will gain a unique opportunity and an advantage over their peers.”
“This is about positive impact and life-changing moments. This programme will help us inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, technologists and mathematicians that will help lead and shape the future of our country.”
Speaking after the meeting, Robert said: “Proud to have played a part in instigating this partnership and delighted by the enthusiastic response from both the Station and the College. RAF Brize Norton is so important to Carterton and by fostering a close relationship between the Station and the College we can ensure they further benefit Carterton in the years ahead by inspiring its young people and offering high-skilled training and employment opportunities.
“One thing is for sure: the future of Carterton is bright, and I look forward to working with the College and RAF Brize Norton to ensure this relationship flourishes in the years ahead.”