We are seeking volunteers with a background in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math to coach and support girls at school. Volunteers can be current professionals or retirees with extensive experience to be able to coach and support these students.

A STEM coach will demonstrate a capacity and understanding of the issues and barriers facing girls undertaking STEM subjects. This includes a capacity to relate, be empathetic and display a degree of emotional intelligence in order to connect with the girls, who may be quiet and or anxious. The coaching program is not academic support or tutoring, but rather being a role model or helping the students to navigate their chosen career and provide positive reassurance.

EdConnect has successfully secured funding from the Gandel Foundation to support students at school, particularly girls, who have an interest in STEM subjects or wish to pursue a STEM career in the future.

Volunteers are required for either one of the following:

1. STEM Learning Support – for upper primary students (year 5 and 6) and lower to mid secondary students (year 7 to 9) offering in class support to students and teachers and providing opportunities to encourage young girls to continue their interest in STEM subjects. Classes will be teacher led.

Time required: Min 1 hour per week, during school hours.

Commitment: 6 to 12 months

2. STEM Coaching program - for mid to upper secondary students (year 10 and 11) to complete a structured 8 week coaching program in small groups of no more than 5 students with their coach. The coaching is not academic support or tutoring, but rather being a role model or helping the students to navigate their chosen career and provide positive reassurance.

Time required: Min 2 hours per week, during school hours.

Commitment: 8 weeks

All volunteers will undergo compulsory screening and training to determine if they are a suitable fit for this role.