Pupils from two primary schools in Teesside have said a big ‘thank you’ to UKSE for a £2,500 grant that ensures they can continue to take part in a valuable programme.

The funding, from UKSE’s Community Support Fund, will see pupils at St Bega’s Catholic Primary School in Hartlepool and St Gabriel’s Catholic Primary School in Ormesby benefit from The Power of Women (PoW) Primary School Programme.

The programme currently runs in 24 Tees Valley schools, aiming to raise aspirations, break gender stereotypes, build confidence and inspire girls and boys from an early age by introducing them to careers and role models they may otherwise not encounter.

It includes workshops, visits and other activities involving local businesses and further education providers and was founded by the late Professor Jane Turner OBE, who was Pro Vice Chancellor for Enterprise and Business Engagement at Tees University

“We’re incredibly grateful for the funding and support from UKSE,” said Sophie McKenna, Head of Campaign and Operations at Power of Women CIC. “As an organisation that relies entirely on donations and grants, support from local businesses and partners plays a crucial role in everything we do.

“Each school in our programme is partnered with local businesses that offer workplace visits, role models and inspirational activity days. We also organise university visits to raise aspirations and we’re proud to now have more than 100 student ambassadors championing the programme across the area.”

It has been shown that gender stereotyping can already have had a considerable impact by the age of six and girls can shy away from certain subjects. The PoW Primary School Programme aims to boost confidence and ambitions, challenge the idea of traditional roles and demonstrate the advantages that brings for everyone.

Sarah Thorpe, UKSE Regional Manager, said: “We feel very much part of the Tees Valley community and our Community Support Fund has contributed to a range of projects in the region that improve life for people of all ages. “It was a real pleasure to be involved in the interview panel at St Bega’s when the PoW school ambassadors were selected and to see so much enthusiasm and commitment.”