Adult returner journeys through HE to STEM careers > Video case studies

Video case studies

James in the lab at the University of Bristol

This collection of video case studies developed in the South West as part of the National HE STEM Programme project, Adult returner journeys through higher education to STEM careers, is designed to be used by anyone who has a role in informing and advising adults who are interested in returning to higher education in science, technology, engineering or maths (STEM subjects). The case studies will also feature on the Lifepilot website where they will be accessed directly by a wide range of adults who may be considering returning to education.

Ross in the composites workshop at Plymouth University

One of the highlights for the project team was hearing first-hand about the passion for learning that the case studies participants had, and their enthusiasm for science and engineering which was not awakened at school. The project has enabled adult returners to tell their stories and share their experiences, learning and the benefits of studying STEM subjects at higher education in a way that will be informative and inspiring to those contemplating a similar route.

Use of the video case studies

As with all the outputs of the National HE STEM Programme, these video case studies are available for the wider higher education and further education community to use. The videos can be downloaded and embedded into other websites and presentations from Vimeo using the code provided at the end of each case study text.

The South West Spoke of the National HE STEM Programme commissioned Dr Tracey Sweet from South Devon College to create some activity ideas for using the video case studies with different audiences. You are very welcome to download the worksheets below and adapt them for use within your own educational setting.

Staff involved

Prof David Harwood
Project lead, Plymouth University

Jan Peters
Project coordinator, Katalytik

Betsy Bowerman
University of Bristol

Carol Rothwell
Katalytik

Deborah Mcallister
University of the West of England

Dr Ruth Williams
The Open University

Dr Tracey Sweet
South Devon College

Gary Ayles
Devon and Somerset Training Provider Network

Heather Campbell
STEMNET

Julie Kirkby
The Open University

Karen Dickens
Katalytik

Rob Martin
University of Bath

Stephanie Hulford
Open College Network South West Region

Sue Lewis
University of Bath

Tom Staniford
Major Minor Media