Teen-Turn aims to influence course decision-making processes, inform participants on education and career options, and combat stereotypes.
Teen-Turn does this by strategically changing how girls, including those from disadvantaged and underrepresented communities, identify with STEM career environments through work placements, after school activities, exam support and professional development programming for alumnae.
As learning in the presence of female role models has been shown to impact girls’ self-image and confidence–encouraging them to see themselves in new ways and stimulate new interests–female company representatives mentor Teen-Turn participants, perpetuating interest and enthusiasm.
More girls exploring and gaining an interest in STEM will lead to more women earning STEM qualifications, thus meeting a demand for skills that is currently outpacing supply. The current technology economy is unsustainable, otherwise.
Teen-Turn provides a unique opportunity for education and industry organizations to work together to inspire and engage through long-term relationships and the building of social capital with girls during the years that span from ‘Junior Cert to Job’.