How to recruit women and girls to STEM jobs

Traditional recruitment methods can unintentionally overlook diverse talent, making it more challenging for employers to see the potential of candidates who are underrepresented in STEM, like women. To effectively reach women and girls, recruitment strategies and apprenticeship programmes must be inclusive, accessible, and reflective of what women (generally speaking) value.

This is especially true as Gen Z (those born between 1996 and 2012) enter the workforce. This generation is making much more conscious choices about careers, ensuring that their employer aligns with their own personal values. Thoughtful, inclusive recruitment practices are essential for breaking down barriers from the outset and encouraging women and girls to consider STEM apprenticeships – and your organisation.

This section on Recruitment will provide guidance over the process, as well as including hints and tips on best practice when recruiting for a STEM apprentice. We hope you find these resources useful.

STEM Recruitment Resources

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Writing a STEM job specification or advert

Learn how to write an effective job ad for a STEM apprenticeship or full-time job. Find out what’s been keeping women and girls from applying previously and see how you can hook them in with a forthright, engaging job spec.

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Creating an inclusive job application process

Read our guidance on providing a process for application and interviewing that’s fair and inclusive to all applicants, including tips on candidate selection and ways to offer support during the interview process.

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Attract

See how to get women and girls interested in the possibilities of a STEM career at an early age.

visit the Attract section

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Support

How to support your learners as they develop valuable skills.

visit the Support section

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Retain

How to maintain and progress in a career in STEM.

visit the Retain section

Other STEM Apprenticeships Toolkit resources

A female worker wearing mechanic overalls looks up as she examines a vehicle.

Apprenticeships across the UK

Find out why apprenticeships represent a great opportunity for women and girls to get into STEM careers. See how apprenticeships work and what apprentices can expect to learn in the role.

Case studies: women in STEM

We’ve worked with a number of employers across the UK to put their plans for a more diverse STEM workforce into action. Find out how leading employers are creating more opportunities for women in STEM apprenticeships.