Written question asked by Phyllis Starkey (Labour) on Thursday, 28 February 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 14 March 2002. It was answered by Ivan Lewis (Labour) on Thursday, 14 March 2002 on behalf of the Department for Education and Skills.

Dept for Education and Skills

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills, What steps she is taking to encourage (a) boys and (b) girls to study science. (Failed OPQ)

Answer: Dr. Starkey: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what steps she is taking to encourage (a) boys and (b) girls to study science. [40746] Mr. Ivan Lewis: The National Curriculum is gender-free, requiring equality of opportunity for girls and boys between the ages of five and 16. Pupils study an equal balance of biology, physics and chemistry together with aspects of earth science and astronomy. Results in primary science are excellent; in 2001, 87 per cent. of pupils achieved level 4, the standard expected for their age, or above, a 25 per cent. increase since 1996. Building on the achievements at primary level, we are piloting a science strategy designed to raise standards for all 11 to 14-year-olds and a national programme will be introduced in all schools in September. In recognition of its importance in preparing young people for adult and working life, we are proposing the retention of science as a core subject for 14 to 16-year-olds in our consultation document: "14-19 extending opportunities, raising standards". In January, we launched the science and engineering ambassadors scheme as part of Science Year. One of its main purposes is to encourage both boys and girls to continue their study of science beyond the age of 16.

Secondary information