The Government has confirmed its plans to increase the number of girls participating in core STEM subjects in higher and further education.
Whilst the number of girls taking STEM A levels has increased by 18 per cent since 2010, there is still more to do. The Government have undertaken focused action to increase the number of girls taking up science, technology, engineering and mathematics subjects after the age of 16.
These measures include a new post-16 mathematics premium, in which schools receive an additional £600 for every pupil taking maths at A level; an £84 million programme to improve computing teaching, with a particular focus on girls; and the STEM Ambassador programme, representing a network of over 30,000 volunteers encouraging participation in STEM and providing girls with visible role models.
TIGA CEO, Dr Richard Wilson OBE said:
“Only 18 per cent of computer science graduates are women,. It is important that girls and women have equal opportunities to study STEM subjects; pursue STEM careers; and achieve senior STEM roles.
“Schemes such as the post-16 mathematics premium are to be encouraged, but private organisations also have an important part to play. For example, NextGen have developed the ‘Aspiring Women’ programme to support and encourage women in the video games industry.
“Increasing the number of number of girls and women in STEM will help to ensure that there is a diverse talent pool and that the UK’s digital sector remains globally competitive and sustainable in the long-term.”