OnSide and GSK partner to inspire the next generation in STEM

OnSide is proud to announce a new partnership with GSK, uniting our shared ambition to inspire young people and open upopportunities in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM). 

As a global biopharma company, GSK, will support the partnership with the creation of dedicated Maker Zones at Unitas, Barnet Youth Zone and WEST, Hammersmith & Fulham Youth Zone. These zones will provide engaging and accessible spaceswhere young people can explore STEM through hands-on activities. 

Alongside this, a pilot programme of intensive STEM workshops will be delivered  in May and October, in collaboration with The Franklin Institute, a renowned science and technology learning museum in Philadelphia, USA . Experts will travel from the United States to work directly with young people and train Youth Zone staff, helping to embed high-quality STEM provision for the long term. 

This partnership builds on a longstanding relationship between GSK and WEST, which began in 2018, and  marks an exciting new phase as we work with OnSide to expand the reach and impact of this initiative. 

By combining GSK’s expertise and commitment to science with OnSide’s national network of Youth Zones, this programme aims to make STEM relevant, exciting and achievable for all young people, particularly those who may not otherwise have access to these opportunities. 

Stephanie Dean, Director of Programmes, Charitable Investments at GSK said: 

“Through engaging, practical activities that make scientific concepts tangible, our partnership helps students explore the range of STEM careers available to them. Science drives what we do at GSK every day, and we’re delighted to support and inspire future scientists. Activities like the ‘Be a Chemist’ programme will introduce young people  to a range of real-world STEM careers, helping to broaden horizons and raise aspirations. 

Employee engagement is also a key focus, with colleagues from three GSK sites volunteering their time. They will  bringadditional skills, insight and inspiration to young people participating in the programme. 

Looking ahead, our ambition is to develop a scalable model that can be rolled out across the wider OnSide Network, reaching thousands more young people and helping to build a more inclusive future STEM workforce.”

Jamie Masraff, CEO at OnSide said:

“We’re incredibly grateful to GSK for their support and commitment to helping young people access opportunities in STEM. Through our Youth Zones, we’re creating spaces where young people can discover what they’re capable of, and by bringing STEM to life in a hands-on, accessible way, this programme will open up new possibilities and future pathways. We’re proud to be working with GSK, Unitas and WEST to inspire the next generation and help more young people find their passion and their purpose.”