The CIE (Confronting Inequality in Education) Mentoring Programme has completed its most successful year yet, supporting 69 Year 12 students.
This year saw the programme support the highest number to date across our two partner schools: Ark Academy Wembley, and for the first time, Ark Pioneer Academy in Barnet.
The initiative partners Imperial researchers with students from under-represented backgrounds who are studying STEM subjects.
The programme provides tailored academic support, mentoring, and university application guidance, aiming to foster curiosity, boost confidence, and strengthen higher education opportunities in STEM.
The programme culminates in a scientific poster showcase, where students present a topic they and their Imperial mentor have explored in depth over the course of the year.
This year’s cohort produced 63 posters, displayed at an in-person celebration attended by students, mentors, teachers, and Imperial staff. The event concluded with awards for Best Poster - Judges' Choice and People's Choice, recognising the exceptional standard of work produced by this year’s cohort.
Well done to all our prize-winners!
Winner of the Judges' Choice Award, Syed
People's Choice Award Winner, Salma
1st runner up - Aliyah
2nd Runner up - Kalina
3rd Runner up - Aqsa
82% of students said the programme increased their confidence in pursuing STEM at university - a clear sign of its positive influence.
"I liked the support we got during the posters, the constant feedback [from my mentor] really improved my work." - Year 12 mentee
The programme is a cross-faculty collaboration, with mentors and organisers from the Faculty of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Faculty of Engineering working together to support students.
"Being able to work alongside professionals allowed me to attain a better understanding of my topic of choice." – Year 12 mentee
Looking ahead, the CIE Mentoring Programme will continue to grow. In Summer 2025, the initiative will introduce paid research lab placements, giving students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge research environments.
The programme remains committed to widening participation and building a more inclusive pipeline into STEM and will return next year with even more opportunities for students, and mentors to get involved.
Find out more about the CIE Mentoring Programme.
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