Nestled in Harlow, BMAT STEM Academy, one of 44 UTCs, supported by the Baker Dearing Trust, is redefining what it means to prepare students for the future. With just 269 learners and a strong ethos rooted in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, this small but mighty school is making a big impact—particularly in its careers provision.

Careers at the Core

At BMAT STEM, careers education isn’t an add-on—it’s the foundation. Headteacher Dave Ramsey, who completed Level 7 careers leadership training, champions a whole-school approach where “results are great, but destinations are what really matter.” This ethos is echoed by Career Leader Mike Robinson, who brings 25 years of industry experience in print, publishing and advertising to his role. Together with John Gruppetta, Head of English & Creative Arts, they ensure that careers is embedded across the curriculum.

From the moment students join in Year 10, they are asked five key questions to uncover their aspirations. These insights fuel bespoke careers interviews and tailored opportunities, aligning with the updated Gatsby Benchmarks, which now emphasise personalised guidance and meaningful workplace experiences as part of the government’s Work Experience Guarantee.

Real-World Connections

BMAT STEM’s partnerships with local employers are exemplary. Through the support of Enterprise Coordinator Carly Smyth and Enterprise Advisors Andrew Green from Princeps and Joe Castanga from Colas, students gain access to real-world experiences that align with their interests and the school’s STEM focus.

Princeps, a local microelectronics company, also offers placements and mock interviews. Additionally, they hosted BMAT STEM staff for a Teacher Encounter. The session provided a deeper understanding of the company and the various career pathways available.

While Colas, active in local infrastructure projects, keeps students informed and engaged with the world of construction. These collaborations reflect the updated Benchmark 6, which requires schools to provide meaningful workplace experiences. Not just your bog standard placement.

Innovative Work Experience

BMAT STEM is trailblazing with its modern approach to work experience. Partnering with Learner Adams Bones (LAB), a medical advertising agency, students participate in a week-long in-house agency project called Esteem. They create industry-standard videos and posters, even using Joe Allen’s (who works with ITV, BBC and C4) super slow-motion cameras. One student Summer Brooks even secured a role as a camera assistant on Scrapheap Challenge as a result of their participation.

This initiative exemplifies the cross-curricular, project-based learning that the updated Gatsby Benchmarks now encourage, particularly in linking curriculum learning to careers (Benchmark 4).

A Culture of Aspiration

BMAT STEM’s small size allows for deep, individualised support. Students are seen as clients, and staff work to “realign expectations” to open doors to new possibilities. Whether it’s helping a student secure an apprenticeship after relocating or supporting a budding 3D design talent all the way to University in Cambridge, the school’s commitment to reducing NEET outcomes and fostering first-generation university entrants is unwavering.

The school’s differentiated curriculum, supported by its UTC status, allows for flexibility—career activities are woven throughout every school activity, and the curriculum is adapted to fit around these priorities. This aligns with the DfE’s 2025 statutory guidance, which urges schools to champion careers leadership and invest in high-quality provision

Looking Ahead

With strong links to local Colleges and Universities, a growing alumni network, and a forward-thinking approach to STEM education, BMAT STEM is already meeting—and exceeding—the expectations set out in the 2025 Gatsby Benchmark updates and statutory guidance. Their model is one of collaboration, customisation, and courage, proving that when careers are at the heart of education, students thrive. They tell their students;

Someone’s got to do it, why not you?