The 1851 Trust was founded on a simple but powerful insight: for many young people, the barrier to STEM isn’t ability — it’s context. When Sir Ben Ainslie stepped onto a boat, he was doing maths and science in everything he did — he just didn’t know it yet. Once he saw it working in the real world, everything clicked. That realisation is what built the 1851 Trust, and it’s what drives everything we do.

Today, our STEM Crew programme reaches over 42% of UK secondary schools and is taught across 31 countries — because when young people see science and maths working in the real world, inspired by real athletes and engineers doing extraordinary things, learning clicks and everything changes.

But we can’t do it alone. That’s why partnership sits at the heart of everything we do.

We believe that every young person deserves access to a world-class education. Together, we can ensure more young people grow up knowing that there are no limits on their potential.

Our Partnerships

Our award winning digital resources and roadshows are developed with partners that share our aim to address the STEM and climate learning gap to have enough STEM-educated future innovators to meet our climate goals, and create pathways for success in maritime, STEM, and green skill careers.

We consistently deliver in terms of quality, reach and impact

42% Presence in UK secondary schools

500K Students 11-14 years taught STEM Crew per annum

90% Students are more interested in STEM subjects

100% Of teachers feel more confident in their ability to cover and discuss climate related topics in lessons

What makes us different?

• We use our access to some of the worlds best athletes and sports teams to create a different approach for educators​.
  
• We use the real-world context and science of sport and inspiration of athletes to make STEM subjects relatable​ for young people.