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Dept for Education and Skills

Answer

Dr. Kumar: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what is being done to promote scientific careers to school students; and what involvement professional bodies have in such information and promotion schemes. [137539] Alan Johnson: Our strategy for science, engineering and technology was set out in "Investing in Innovation" published in July 2002 in response to the recommendations made in Sir Gareth Roberts' report "SET for Success". Our response to Baroness Greenfield's report "SET Fair" outlines our strategy to tackle under-representation of women in science. Both of these included looking at the promotion of science careers. We are working closely with colleagues at the DTI and the Promoting SET for Women Unit to take forward the recommendations in those reports. We believe that a good way of promoting science, including careers, in schools is by introducing current scientific developments into the classroom. As well as making science both exciting and relevant this will give young people an understanding of the role of science in society. We are working with a range of bodies, including professional bodies, to achieve this. We have consulted on the programme of study for science at Key Stage 4, following a review by the QCA. The new programme of study will set out a core for science, suitable for all learners, to increase flexibility of qualifications at Key Stage 4. From September 2003, a new science GCSE, "Science in the 21st Century" will be piloted in 50 schools. It aims to provide a sound and stimulating science education that will engage all students with contemporary science issues; and to increase the number of young people studying science subjects post-16. Connexions Personal Advisers provide independent advice to students on all careers, including scientific careers. The Science and Engineering Ambassadors' scheme (SEAs) launched jointly by this Department and the DTI in January 2002, aims to show young people the links between what they learn at school and the world of work. Ambassadors work with young people across the key stages and give them an understanding of the opportunities that a science, engineering or technology based career can offer.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

137539; 413 c351W

Session

2002-03

Subjects

Pilot schemes Pupils Vocational guidance Science GCSE

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk