Newcastle United Foundation inspire futures in STEM with ‘Next Generation’ partner, Baker Hughes

Children and young adults supported by Newcastle United Foundation are exploring a future in STEM through hands-on experience and innovative insight delivered by industry experts in the North East.

A group of students from Benfield School, in Newcastle’s East End, are the first class to benefit from a multi-year collaboration between the charity and Baker Hughes, the Foundation’s Next Generation partner.

Working together to support the next generation of North East talent, the partnership will expand STEM opportunities for young people at pivotal periods in their life and education through work placements, skill-building workshops in schools, site visits and curated career pathways into the STEM sector.

To kick off the partnership, staff from Baker Hughes, an energy technology company, which has a major manufacturing centre in Wallsend, delivered an interactive STEM session for students through the Foundation’s NU Transitions programme.

Dawn Barber, Head of Business at Newcastle United Foundation, said: “Our partnership with Baker Hughes strengthens our commitment to giving young people the confidence, skills and belief to take their next steps in life.

“Working alongside an industry leader enables us to open even more doors for students who may not otherwise have access to these experiences, and it’s fantastic to see young people we support already gaining real insight into the world of work.

“Together, we’re helping young people raise their aspirations and recognise the potential they have to shape their futures in the STEM sector.”

Working with the NEAT Academy Trust in the East End of Newcastle, Newcastle United Foundation delivers interventions for Year 6 pupils preparing for secondary school and Key Stage 4 students at risk of becoming NEET – not in education, employment or training.

Sessions help young people build confidence, explore future opportunities and connect with pathways into further education or careers, which will now include dedicated support from Baker Hughes.

“Baker Hughes has been a crucial part of the fabric of the North East for more than a quarter of a century through our flexible pipe systems manufacturing plant and Newcastle Centre of Excellence,” said Daniel Wright - Global Leader - Flexible Pipe Systems at Baker Hughes.

“By partnering with the Newcastle United Foundation, we can help prepare the next generation of engineers, scientists, and tradespeople for rewarding careers that will rewrite The Energy Equation™ here in U.K. and around the world.”

Newcastle United Foundation’s NU Transitions programme is also supported by the Premier League and Professional Footballer’s Association. Administered through the Premier League Charitable Fund, the funding helps football clubs to tackle inequality and respond to local challenges, supporting people and their communities to be more inclusive.

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