Science, Engineering, Maths and Technology (STEM) subjects at Uxbridge College will receive a £30,000 boost thanks to Nexen Petroleum UK Limited.

Nexen, which is based in Vine Street, Uxbridge and is a wholly owned subsidiary of CNOOC Ltd (China National Offshore Oil Corporation Limited), is donating the sum over the next two years. The company has also joined the college’s Employer Champion Scheme which supports students to gain work related skills and experience.

The money will be used for activities including running a Science & Engineering Club, supporting the College’s annual Science & Engineering Week, developing a STEM ambassador programme, and awarding bursaries to young people studying STEM subjects.

Lorraine Collins, Executive Director – Enterprise and Development, at Uxbridge College said: “Uxbridge College is very pleased to receive this generous donation which highlights the importance of Science, Engineering, Maths and Technology (STEM) in local, regional, national and international markets. We are delighted that Nexen has become our latest Employer Champion, helping our students to develop their skills and knowledge in a practical and creative way linked to their future careers. We look forward to Nexen staff having an active role in the College’s STEM activities.”

Archie Kennedy, Managing Director of Nexen Petroleum UK Ltd, said: “STEM subjects are incredibly important in preparing students for a number of vital roles at Nexen and the wider energy industry. In that sense this donation is an investment in our future as well as that of the students. We look forward to seeing how the College takes forward its programme to show students how interesting and useful STEM subjects can be as well as providing practical advice about the types of exciting careers they can lead to.”

The ambassador programme, a national initiative being run by STEMNET (Science, Technology, Mathematics and Engineering Network) was launched for Uxbridge College in the Spring during Science & Engineering Week 2014. Around 20 students expressed an interest in the programme, which works to promote the subjects among young people. Science students from Uxbridge College joining the initiative will visit schools and other colleges to help promote STEM careers.