Written question asked by Claire Curtis-Thomas (Labour) on Tuesday, 26 February 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 5 March 2002. It was answered by Ivan Lewis (Labour) on Tuesday, 5 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 initiatives the Government has in place to increase the number of students taking mathematics and physics A level. - Inc ref to Green Paper: "14-19 extending opportunities, raising standards". (Holding answer 4 March 2002).

Answer: Mrs. Curtis-Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what initiatives the Government have in place to increase the number of students taking mathematics and physics A-level. [39701] Mr. Ivan Lewis: [holding answer 4 March 2002]: Mathematics and science are at the heart of our agenda to raise standards. Pupils have a statutory entitlement to study both subjects within the national curriculum. In recognition of their importance for adult and working life, we propose to keep them as `core' subjects for 14 to 16-year-olds in the Green Paper: "14-19 extending opportunities, raising standards". Science Year is a key initiative to encourage young people to continue their study of science beyond the age of 16. We want young people to view science as relevant to the modern world and as the basis for rewarding careers. "Science and Engineering Ambassadors" is an initiative being developed through Science Year. Ambassadors--professionals in science, engineering, mathematics and technology--will act as role models and mentors for young people and will offer support to teachers.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 39701; 381 c249-50W
Session: 2001-02
Subjects: Assessments Curriculum Standards Sixth form education Mathematics Physics GCE A-level
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk