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Why CGI selected the “I’m a…” programme

CGI employs thousands of engineers, digital specialists and consultants across the United Kingdom. Many want to support schools but face limits on time and travel due to location and commitments to client work. CGI first learned about the “I’m a…” programme through its sponsorship of the Royal Institution’s Christmas Lectures which also funds the initiative. This provided a shared foundation and a natural link to wider work supporting science engagement.

The “I’m a…” programme supported over 300 schools in 2025 and are looking to increase this to 400 in 2026. Many of these schools are in areas with limited access to enrichment opportunities. Students gain a clearer view of future careers and understand the steps needed to reach them. The online format removes barriers for CGI volunteers who join short sessions that fit within a busy working day. These sessions often last around forty minutes which makes participation practical for project teams.

The digital approach aligns with the CGI metro model. This metro model, based on proximity to our clients and locally-focused delivery, in turn allows teams to build strong relationships near client sites and reduces travel which helps lower carbon emissions.

CGI have established a long-term partnership with the “I’m a…” programme, securing twenty volunteer places to be used across the project lifetime of the associated public sector contract. This supports a broad range of experts from CGI and CGI clients to get involved to inspire future talent, support staff development and deliver measurable Social Value.

How the partnership delivers Government Social Value

This partnership supported CGI in a contract bid assessed under the Government Social Value Model. As of October 25, the updated procurement model PPN002 now applies to all Government contracts. This ensures public spending delivers wider economic, social and environmental benefits. The model provides a consistent framework that ensures suppliers demonstrate clear and measurable Social Value. The partnership between CGI and the “I’m a…” programme supports several outcomes in these models.

The programme supports skills for growth through learning and skills development. Volunteers explain their work in accessible language and answer questions about digital roles. Students often ask about coding, cyber security, artificial intelligence and space technology. These conversations help young people understand the skills needed in future careers.

• PPN002 MAC 2a (Learning and skills development) and 7b (Creating a pipeline of opportunities for the future contract workforce)
• GSVM MAC 6.1 (Tackling inequality in the contract workforce)

The partnership supports the creation of a strong future talent pipeline through school outreach activity. The sessions help students link classroom learning to real world work which supports long term interest in digital careers.

• PPN002 MAC 7a (Remove barriers to entry for young people and under-represented groups)
• GSVM MAC 2.2 (Employment) and 2.3 (Education and training)

CGI also provides direct financial support to Mangorolla, a community interest company (CIC) which runs the “I’m a…” programme. This supports a diverse and resilient supply chain through responsible spend with a VCSE partner. The funding helps the programme grow capacity so more classes can take part.

• PPN002 MAC 3a (Create a diverse supply chain to deliver the contract)
• GVSM MAC 3.1 (Diverse Supply Chains)

Early activity and emerging benefits

CGI volunteers have already supported sessions across the UK through the programme. Many sessions include schools in priority or underserved areas. Students explore digital careers, security related STEM roles and real-world uses of computing.

The “I’m a…” programme provides meaningful and measurable Social Value delivery. Volunteers enjoy the sessions and value the chance to explain their work to young people. They also gain professional development through clear communication and public engagement.

The client organisation gains a partner with a ready-made and compliant Social Value mechanism. Volunteer participation can be tracked and reported each contract year. This supports clients who value performance linked to skills development, outreach and voluntary, community, and social enterprise (VCSE) support.

Benefits for the “I’m a…” programme and the wider community

CGI brings volunteers with expertise in software engineering, cyber security, business analysis and other digital fields. These skills are in high demand and help schools align careers to the curriculum. The involvement of CGI helps the programme meet teacher requests for technology experts who can answer student questions.

The financial support from CGI helps the programme reach more classes and build long term resilience of the platform. This is especially valuable for schools that face barriers to accessing STEM engagement. The partnership strengthens overall capacity and supports wider educational impact.

A model for future Social Value delivery

This partnership demonstrates how Social Value funding can support effective, accessible and equitable STEM outreach. It shows how suppliers can meet Social Value requirements through flexible online volunteering, support for VCSE organisations and meaningful engagement with young people.

CGI is proud to support the “I’m a…” programme and looks forward to welcoming more volunteers. Both organisations hope this case study encourages other companies to explore similar partnerships. Together we can help more young people discover opportunities in science, digital and STEM careers and deliver tangible Social Value outcomes.