Developing the skills to increase innovation and creativity within the South West economy has been identified as a priority for the region by the South West Regional Skills Partnership (SW RSP). 
 
Closely related to innovation and creativity are science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) skills. The regional capacity in STEM skills is a critical concern of many employers. These concerns relate to all levels; from having staff with good basic maths skills, to skilled technicians, to having enough people with higher level STEM qualifications and skills. Education in STEM subjects will better equip individuals to be innovative and creative, unlocking future business potential and responding to the needs of the Region's economy. 
 
The focus for the South West RDA's intervention is ensuring that young peoples' education, training and development reflects the skills and knowledge demands of business and subsequently leads to greater take up of HE provision and entry into STEM careers. 
 
The South West RDA will lead on this SW RSP priority and will work with partners such as the Learning and Skills Council, Sector Skills Councils, the Science and Industry Council, business groups and other RDAs (Yorkshire and Humber and SEEDA) on the STEM agenda. 
 
Consultation has taken place to develop a regional approach, currently known as STEM-SW, with plans for there to be 3 main activity strands:

• Research - a regional snapshot of STEM qualification achievement from GCSEs to PhDs plus articulated demands from business and barriers identified by stakeholders. Good practice will also be highlighted.
• STEM Support Centre - a central source of, and repository for, information and guidance on STEM activities aimed at enriching and enhancing the STEM curriculum.
• STEM interventions - a fund used to support a suite of activities which will encourage the take up and achievement of STEM related qualifications and facilitate progression into HE and STEM related careers.

The STEM-SW approach will enable the development of more sustainable and effective routes for young people into HE and STEM careers. A regional strategy and associated action plan will be developed during the first year of operation utilising information gathered from the initial stages of each strand and building on existing activity and support. 
 
For further information please contact: 
Emily Bird - Tel: 07712 678 962 
Email: emily.bird@southwestrda.org.uk