The future of our sector depends on its ability to attract, inspire, and empower the next generation of professionals. Currently, the ecology and environmental sector is the second least diverse in the UK – a challenge that must be addressed to ensure a vibrant, innovative, and equitable future. Engaging with school-aged learners is a vital part of the solution. By reaching young people early, especially those from underrepresented groups, we can help spark their interest, broaden their horizons, and break down barriers to entry into our field. This page provides a variety of resources and opportunities to help you connect with and inspire young learners, offering practical ways to make a meaningful contribution to increasing diversity within the sector.
Green Jobs for Nature
At the heart of our efforts to inspire and engage future generations is the Green Jobs for Nature website – a collaborative initiative led by CIEEM. This platform is designed to showcase the diverse and rewarding career opportunities within the ecology and environmental sector. It provides essential resources for young people, educators, and employers alike, helping to demystify green careers and highlight pathways into the sector.
Whether you’re looking for practical advice on how to support young learners, insights into career development, or inspiration for your outreach efforts, Green Jobs for Nature is an invaluable starting point.
STEM Learning: Becoming a STEM Ambassador
STEM Ambassadors are volunteers from a wide range of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professions who are passionate about inspiring and engaging young people. They bring real-world experience and enthusiasm to schools, colleges, and community groups, helping to bridge the gap between academic concepts and practical applications.
By sharing their knowledge and experiences, STEM Ambassadors aim to spark curiosity, foster a love for STEM subjects, and encourage young people to pursue careers in these fields.
Through STEM Learning, you could sign up to take part in activities, including:
- Deliver Talks and Workshops: Engage students with interactive sessions about ecology and environmental science.
- Mentor and Guide: Provide career advice and support to aspiring ecologists.
- Collaborate with Schools: Work with teachers to enhance STEM education.
- Participate in Events: Join career fairs, science festivals, and other community events to raise awareness.
Signing up to become a STEM Ambassador, including induction, takes around an hour and will also provide you with a DBS Check, which is valid for England and Wales. Find out more here: https://www.stem.org.uk/
Inspiring the Future; Help young people discover their future from just an hour a year
Did you know what an ecologist or an environmental manager was when you were in school? How and when did you find out about the job you now do? And what do you love about your role? At the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management we’ve partnered with national charity Education and Employers and their Inspiring the Future programme to help excite the future generation about careers in ecology and environmental management.
Young people, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, often have a limited understanding of the career opportunities open to them. But there is an easy way of changing this – giving them the chance to meet you!
Can you spare an hour a year to visit a local primary or secondary school (or to join a session virtually) to talk about what you do and help children better understand what the sector and our jobs are all about?
Research shows speaking with young people about your job is an effective way to have a real and lasting impact, including challenging stereotypes and boosting children’s motivation, attainment and future prospects.
Sign up today to start making a difference.
Independent Engagement Opportunities
If you’re not ready to commit to a specific organisation but still want to inspire the next generation, there are flexible options available to help you get involved.
- Explore Resources on Green Jobs for Nature
The Green Jobs for Nature website offers a wealth of resources to help you plan and deliver effective outreach. From tips on engaging young learners to practical guides for showcasing careers in the ecology and environmental sector, you’ll find everything you need to get started. - Use the Evidence-Led ChatBot Tool
Developed using psychology research, this innovative ChatBot provides personalised guidance for giving effective talks to students. It offers evidence-based recommendations on content, structure, and timing to ensure your presentation resonates with young audiences. Access the ChatBot here and take the guesswork out of creating impactful student engagement. The report used to inform the ChatBot can be found here.
By leveraging these tools, you can play a meaningful role in inspiring future generations without the need to formally join an organisation.