Chester Zoo will receive a major £240,000 investment from Urenco to support local teenagers explore careers in science, technology and conservation.

Launching in 2027, the three-year programme will work with 60 schools across the North West, giving 11 to 13-year-olds hands-on experience of science roles they may not have previously considered.

The programme aims to make STEM opportunities more accessible to young people who face barriers to these careers.

It is expected the scheme will reach 3,000 young people annually and at least 25% of participants will be eligible for free school meals.

The funding comes from Urenco, an international supplier of nuclear fuel services with operations in Cheshire. The company is committed to encouraging young people to explore careers in science and technology.

Andrew Cottrell, managing director of Urenco UK Operations, Capenhurst, said: "Urenco is committed to encouraging young people to explore STEM careers and I'm delighted to be continuing our partnership with Chester Zoo through the Green Horizons Programme.

"The programme will offer hands-on, practical science around climate change, biodiversity and blue and green careers to local 11–13-year-olds at a time when they are thinking about their futures.

"Together, we have a real opportunity to spark curiosity, broaden young people's horizons and inspire the next generation of scientists."

Research suggests there is a gap between young people's desire to help nature and their awareness of careers that could allow them to do so.

A total of 83% of 12 to 15-year-olds wanted to do more to help nature, according to The Children's People and Nature Survey.

Meanwhile, a 2024 report by Groundwork and ESS found that 84% of 16–24-year-olds surveyed had never considered a career in the green sector.

Sean Dick, senior conservation education manager at Chester Zoo, said: "We want to reach young people before they start making decisions about their future, and show them that careers in conservation, sustainability and the environment are open to them.

"It's particularly important to reach those who might not otherwise see themselves represented in STEM industries and help them discover opportunities they may never have considered.

"Without ongoing partnerships like the one we have forged with Urenco, projects like this would not be possible."

The funding will enable Chester Zoo's education team to deliver lessons in schools across the North West and help teachers build their confidence in teaching STEM subjects.

Pupils will also be invited to take part in immersive sessions in a simulation lab in Chester Zoo's Heart of Africa zone.

Funded by Urenco, the lab mirrors aspects of the work carried out at the zoo's Centre of Zoo Science, which opened in 2024 and is also supported by the company.

The lab focuses on endocrinology - the study of hormones - which plays an important role in animal health and reproduction.

The sessions will also explore wider topics including climate change, biodiversity, conservation and sustainability, helping young people discover the science behind protecting wildlife and the environment.

Sue Walker, head of science at Chester Zoo, said: "When I was younger, I loved both animals and science, but I struggled to find my place. I didn't want to be a vet, which seemed like the only option at the time.

"If I'd had access to a project like this, it would have helped me discover the many other ways I could combine those interests.

"It's so important for young people to be able to see themselves in these roles."

Each participating school will receive at least three lessons exploring blue and green careers, including roles focused on water, land, ecology and sustainability.

Pupils will also receive family tickets to Chester Zoo, giving them another opportunity to explore wildlife and conservation beyond the classroom.

Any schools interested in finding out more can contact [email protected].