Action needed to improve uptake of STEM careers

A report has found that significant improvement is needed for more young people to understand and be inspired by STEM careers.

EngineeringUK reported that only 61 per cent of respondents said students of work experience age at their school take part in STEM work experience each year.

Twenty five per cent also said careers leaders in their school are being allocated less than one day per week to fulfil their roles.

The report, ‘Advancing STEM careers provision in England’, highlighted the importance of structured work experience and adequate teacher support to ensure students are prepared for future careers in STEM.

EngineeringUK surveyed 188 teachers and others in schools about the barriers they face in delivering effective STEM careers guidance. 

They found that insufficient funding prevents 37 per cent of respondents from engaging more with STEM employers, and 33 per cent cite a lack of capacity within schools to engaging more with STEM employers.

As well as this, 43 per cent of respondents said practical help in finding good quality STEM work experience for students could be improved. 

One survey respondent said: “We could do more if teachers had more time, and if it fitted with the curriculum. There's a lot that falls between the gaps - e.g., Engineering - is it the responsibility of Maths, Science or DT? We used to have a STEM coordinator, which worked well, but the funding fell away."

Over a third who highlighted funding as a barrier to delivering STEM careers provision told us the lack of funding means that they are unable to support STEM work experience in their school.

EngineeringUK chief executive, Dr Hilary Leevers, commented: “Our report arrives at a pivotal moment when the demand for STEM skills is growing, and the new Government is developing its approach to meet these needs. It offers insights and recommendations to enhance STEM careers provision in schools and colleges in England and provide students with a solid understanding of STEM careers.

“The new government has conveyed its intention to pursue sustainable and green growth by investing in industry, skills and new technologies, but it is abundantly clear we need a larger and more diverse stream of skilled individuals to give businesses the confidence to invest.

“The government must take a more strategic approach to STEM education and skills. This includes greater investment in the careers system to realise the full potential of the billions of pounds invested in education and training. Young people need to be able to make the connection between their studies and their future careers.”

The Advancing STEM careers provision in England’ report recommends that the new government publishes a new long-term careers strategy for England with sufficient funding attached to enable schools and colleges to bring it to life.

They also suggested embedding careers into the subject content of the STEM curriculum and ensures that it highlights the diverse range of roles and people working in the industries.
 
Career Hubs are asked to focus on recruiting more local STEM employers to complete the Employer Standards and get actively involved in programmes.