The STEM-focused School Consortium (SSC) Program is a collaborative initiative developed by the International Association for the Future STEM Workforce (STEM Force) and delivered in partnership with the Korea Foundation for the Advancement of Science and Creativity (KOFAC). Leveraging the expertise and experience of both organizations, including their successful track record in STEM and SMT (science, mathematics, and technology) education capacity building, curriculum development, and research projects worldwide, the program is designed to provide support to consortia of STEM-focused schools in implementing a comprehensive approach to STEM education.

The primary objectives of the program are multi-fold. Firstly, it seeks to foster a whole-school approach to STEM education, ensuring that all aspects of the curriculum integrate STEM principles and align with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Secondly, it aims to enhance students' digital technological skills and employability in the STEM workforce. Additionally, the program endeavors to generate students' interest, enthusiasm, and motivation for STEM subjects through authentic learning experiences. It also seeks to improve academic achievement in STEM subjects, increase the uptake of STEM subjects among students after the age of 16, and boost the number of students from diverse backgrounds entering STEM careers.

To achieve these goals, the program provides comprehensive support to STEM-focused schools, including the following key components:

• Baseline research and assessment of current STEM provision using a STEM assessment tool , allowing for tailored identification of individual school needs.
• Development of partnerships and close collaborations with stakeholders in the education, university, and business sectors to support the creation of appropriate STEM-focused programs within consortia schools.
• Capacity building for school leadership and STEM leadership teams, empowering them in the development, implementation, review, and evaluation of a strategic STEM education plan.
• Capacity building for STEM teachers, equipping them to facilitate authentic STEM learning experiences within their respective subjects and fostering coordination across subjects within and beyond the curriculum.
• Engaging students in solving real-world problems related to the SDGs within their communities through STEM projects.
• Supporting the implementation of context-based active, inquiry-based, problem-based, and project-based learning experiences through comprehensive learning resources.
• Providing high-quality digital learning resources to enhance students' digital technology skills.
• Inspiring students and their families through engaging and enjoyable hands-on experiences and projects during STEM club and STEM camp activities.
• Involving STEM ambassadors to engage students with the world of STEM and mentor them during project work and other STEM experiences.
• Facilitating STEM internships for students in STEM workplaces or research laboratories.
• Celebrating student achievements and the world of STEM through school STEM fairs, regional and national conferences.
• Utilizing the STEM assessment tool for assessing schools and awarding STEM School of Excellence distinctions across four levels: Emerging, Developing, Extending, and Leading.

We look forward to empowering students and nurturing their passion for STEM learning and careers through this program. Together, let us shape a brighter future through STEM education.

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A STEM assessment tool is a resource used to evaluate and measure various aspects of STEM education. It helps schools assess the effectiveness of their STEM programs, identify areas for improvement, and make data-driven decisions. It typically covers curriculum, teaching methods, student engagement, teacher development, partnerships, career exploration, and equity. The tool guides strategic planning for continuous improvement in STEM education.