A level results show girls are enthusiastic about a career in science, engineering and technology
In the wake of A Level results released today, a leading Government organisation has called for employers to ensure that high achieving girls go on to be a success in science, engineering and technology (SET) careers.
Girls outperformed boys in some subjects which traditionally lead to a career in male-dominated industries. As a percentage of new A* grades achieved, girls did better than boys in biology, ICT, physics and technology and overall there was an increase in girls taking physics, maths, further maths, chemistry and biology compared to 2009’s results.
Jane Clarke, assistant director at The UKRC, the Government’s lead body for advancing gender equality in SET, is delighted with the results. She said:
“16.8 percent more girls have taken science and maths subjects since 2005, a higher proportional increase than boys, so the message that a career in SET can be fulfilling and crucially ‘for girls’ finally seems to be getting through. Women are still underrepresented in these vital growth industries, but these results show that they continue to get the right qualifications. It is now a question of universities retaining their interest in SET subjects and highlighting career pathways into jobs. Employers also need to create an environment where girls feel comfortable enough to enjoy a long and successful career.”
“It is very encouraging indeed to see that girls continue to be interested in A level subjects that can lead to a career in the SET sectors, such as mathematics, further mathematics, ICT and technology. The gap in overall participation levels is closing but computing (8.9 percent female entries) and physics (21.5 percent female entries) are clearly not appealing to young women and that needs to change. The challenge is to break down gender barriers and ensure girls know there is a career path into exciting jobs in science, engineering and technology after education.”
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All media enquiries to Nick Moules at Cicada Communications. 01423 567 111, 07920400158 or nick@cicada-comms.com
Note to editors
The UKRC aims to significantly improve the participation and position of women in science, engineering and technology occupations, to benefit the future productivity of the UK and the lifetime earnings and career aspirations of women.
The UKRC is the UK’s leading centre providing information and advisory services to businesses and organisations in these sectors, and supporting women entering, returning and progressing in these fields.
UKRC products and services include:
- CEO Charter
- SET Fair Standard
- Culture Analysis Tool (CAT)
- focus groups
- gender equality consultancy
- gender equality training
- workplace champion training
- mentoring schemes
- work placements and support for women returners
- Connect women’s networks
- GetSET Women
- professional development opportunities for women
- statistical inquiry service
