Airbus Broughton launches STEM programme with local schools

 

Airbus Broughton has announced a new STEM partnership with 13 schools across North Wales and Chester to inspire the next generation of engineers and aerospace professionals.

The initiative aims to promote STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education, with a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion, while helping to build a sustainable talent pipeline for the future of the UK’s aerospace industry.

The partnership, launched during National Apprenticeship Week, will connect students with Airbus professionals, giving them opportunities to take part in hands-on workshops, explore careers in aerospace and engineering, and gain a behind-the-scenes look at how Airbus builds aircraft wings at its Broughton facility.

Each participating school will be assigned a dedicated sponsor from the Airbus Broughton leadership team, who will provide guidance, facilitate STEM activities, and support engagement with students.

A network of Airbus STEM Ambassadors will also mentor students, sharing their experiences and offering practical advice about pursuing STEM careers.

Daniel Rigby, Head of Early Career at Airbus Broughton, said:

“At Airbus, we’re passionate about encouraging young people to pursue careers in STEM-focused areas. Through this partnership with schools in Chester and North Wales, we hope to ignite a spark in the minds of the students on how exciting and rewarding a career in engineering and aerospace can be.

“In the UK, we have a big challenge to secure the pipeline of talent that will support our aerospace industry in the future. It is initiatives like this that are key to supporting and nurturing young talent from our local communities to become the highly skilled workforce of the future.”

The programme also focuses on increasing diversity in STEM by encouraging participation from underrepresented groups, particularly females.

Airbus aims to work closely with teachers to tailor the programme to meet the needs and interests of local students, ensuring they receive the support and inspiration needed to thrive in STEM subjects.

Assistant Headteacher at Whitby High School, Kay Rimmer, welcomed the collaboration:

“We’re proud to be partnering with Airbus to shine a light on what a future career in aerospace could look like. This STEM Partnership programme will provide diverse opportunities for students to learn and connect with leaders at Airbus that go far beyond the curriculum. It’s real stories and experiences that aim to inspire and educate. That’s good for STEM, good for our students, and good for the wider community.”

St. Richard Gwyn Catholic High School Assistant Headteacher, Martin Crawley, echoed these sentiments:

“Our strong partnership with global companies like Airbus ensures that we’re giving our students the best possible chance in the world of work when they leave school after their GCSEs or A levels. Through the partnership programme, students gain direct access to industry professionals, real-world experiences, and inspiring role models from within Airbus.”

In 2024, Airbus’ Early Careers team in Broughton conducted 165 events, engaging with over 11,000 potential candidates in STEM-related areas.

This latest initiative builds on that commitment to nurturing local talent and expanding access to careers in engineering and aerospace.

The 13 schools involved in the partnership are:

• The Whitby High School
• Wirral Grammar School for Boys
• Birkenhead High School Academy
• Hawarden High School
• St. Richard Gwyn Catholic High School
• The Catholic High School
• Castell Alun High School
• Blacon High School
• St David’s High School
• Neston High School
• Argoed High School
• Wirral Grammar School for Girls
• Upton Hall School FCJ

The partnership is part of Airbus’ broader strategy to strengthen early careers in aerospace and ensure the future workforce is equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the industry.