EFFORTS to inspire the next generation of scientists are to be stepped up at West Yorkshire based speciality chemicals manufacturer.

Horsforth-based Stephenson Group, which employs 100 people producing soap for clients such as The Body Shop, is doubling the number of volunteers on the government-backed STEM Ambassador Programme aimed at inspiring more youngsters to study for science-related careers.

To date, six Stephenson staff, including chief executive Jamie Bentley, have been supporting local schools through interactive talks, workshops and site visits designed to encourage students to think more positively about science, technology, engineering and mathematics and potential linked careers .

Now the global manufacturer, which started in Bradford in 1856, has pledged to increase the number of STEM ambassadors to 12.

The firm’s decision to increase its STEM activities coincides with recent A level results which saw chemistry retain its position as the sixth most popular subject, behind maths, English, biology, psychology and history and another rise in the number of girls taking STEM subjects.

Jamie Bentley said: “It’s great to see chemistry retaining its popularity with A level students and the science subjects proving a popular choice for university education and as a potential career path

“We are passionate about creative chemistry and will do everything we can to encourage study of the subject and to help it grow in popularity.

“With a fifth of our workforce being engineers and qualified chemists, the STEM Ambassador programme is a great way for us to do this and also give something back by sharing our experience and expertise.

“If we can inspire young people to consider taking a STEM subject, and demonstrate all of the exciting possibilities and opportunities that it can present for them, then our roles as volunteers will be a fulfilling and successful experience.

“I wholeheartedly encourage other businesses in this sector to get involved with STEM and help inspire the next generation.”

In addition to Jamie Bentley, Stephenson’s STEM Ambassadors are Lucy Simmonds, technical business development manager; Rachael Simpson, group marketing manager; Charlotte Gronan, intern technical chemist; Karl Godley, shift manager and maintenance fitter Dave Bryant .

The STEM Ambassador programme has more than 33,000 volunteers nationally. In West Yorkshire around 1,000 volunteers take part in around 500 STEM-related activities a year.