Supporting women and girls in STEM apprenticeships

Gen Z apprentices place high value on getting the support they need in the workplace. That’s why fostering a diverse, inclusive environment is essential for worker retention and performance improvements. This is an especially important directive in male-dominated fields like STEM.

The Support section of the STEM Toolkit is designed to equip you with the knowledge needed to effectively support women and girls on your STEM apprenticeship programme. It contains guidance on how to create an inclusive and welcoming environment where women and girls can thrive, feel valued, and reach their full potential.

We’ve put together a series of articles taking you through the different stages of an apprenticeship following acceptance of an offer: from the weeks leading up to the start, through the first few days and weeks of the onboarding process. You’ll also find guidance on creating a welcoming atmosphere for women and girls, and tips for line managers on setting up support networks.

STEM support resources

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STEM apprentice onboarding tips

Get your successful applicants ready for a productive and positive experience in their STEM apprenticeship. Read our advice on onboarding your apprentices.

Engineer And Female Apprentice Measuring Components In Factory

Creating a welcoming workplace

Advice for line managers and leaders on creating an inclusive atmosphere where women and girls feel comfortable and positive about their role.

Teacher and student sitting together with digital tablet and laptop

Support networks and sponsorship

Pick up some tips on other work-based places of support, including a sponsor who can help your apprentice apply for new and valuable opportunities.

More resources

Get more advice on supporting your apprentices on their journey, and on making the workplace a more inclusive environment for women and girls.

Find more from the STEM Apprenticeships Toolkit

Female teacher in classroom demonstrating STEM experiment with two pupils

Attract

Generate interest and enthusiasm for STEM among women and girls from an early age. We are looking to challenge the stereotypes and show what STEM careers can help people to achieve, to attract new members.

visit the Attract section

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Recruit

Develop strategies to actively recruit more women and girls into STEM apprenticeships. Address barriers to entry and create inclusive recruitment processes.

visit the Recruit section

A group of students wearing safety protection are gathered around listening to the group leader

Retain

Provide the resources and wider organisational changes to retain women in STEM fields, both during and after their apprenticeship, and ensure there are opportunities for long-term retention and growth.

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.