La Sapienza University is now accepting applications to co-design new STEM programmes in schools

Sapienza University of Rome is launching a new call for applications aimed at teachers in lower and upper secondary schools who are interested in taking part in PER-LEI-STEM, the two-year project dedicated to teacher training and the co-design of STEM teaching programmes that are more inclusive, hands-on and focused on overcoming gender stereotypes. Applications will remain open until 5 September 2026 via the new website per-lei-stem.uniroma1.it.

The next phase of the project will begin in September with the subject-specific modules, which will guide participants in designing workshop-based learning experiences to be trialled subsequently in their own classrooms.

Launched in the 2025–2026 academic year and set to run until 30 September 2027, PER-LEI-STEM – Customisable Educational Pathways in Laboratory-Based Learning, Gender Empowerment, Interdisciplinarity and STEM – is promoted by Sapienza University of Rome through the Teaching and Learning Centre, as part of the ‘STEM Università 2024’ call for proposals issued by the Department for Equal Opportunities of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers. The project stems from the work of an interdisciplinary team comprising over 30 lecturers from various academic fields at Sapienza – including science, engineering, computer science and psychology – and from consultations with 36 lower and upper secondary schools, which were involved in identifying training needs and key challenges.

Following the preparatory activities and the initial sessions focusing on cross-curricular teaching methodologies, self-efficacy and tackling gender stereotypes, PER-LEI-STEM is now moving into the phase dedicated to subject-specific modules and co-design. Interested schools and teachers will be able to consult the training programme and identify the courses best suited to their school’s needs. Applications may be submitted either by individual teachers or by the school. The project also encourages the participation of several teachers from the same school, so as to promote the sharing of the skills acquired and the application of these methodologies across the entire school community.

The curriculum comprises 11 STEM subject modules, complemented by activities focusing on cross-curricular methodologies, problem-solving, soft skills and active learning. The courses incorporate practical workshops, group projects, gamification and inquiry-based methodologies.