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Dept for Education and Skills

Answer

Mrs. Curtis-Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what steps he has taken to encourage young women to take up physics A Level. [116616] Mr. Miliband: We are working closely with our colleagues in the Promoting SET for Women Unit at the DTI to take forward recommendations made in Baroness Greenfield's report, "SET Fair." From September 2003, a new science GCSE, Science in the 21st Century, will be piloted in 50 schools. The aim is to provide a sound and stimulating science education for all students whether they become consumers, users or producers of science. We are currently consulting on the programme of study for science at Key Stage 4, following a review by the QCA. In partnership with the Wellcome Trust, we are creating a national network of science learning centres that will provide innovative training for science teachers and technicians, aiming to bring the excitement of science into the classroom, including encouraging more young women to continue studying science post-16. We are also developing innovative materials and teacher training to improve the teaching and learning of A Level biology, chemistry and physics. We also fund specific initiatives that aim to promote physics to young people including the British Physics Olympiad.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

116616; 406 c222W

Session

2002-03

Subjects

Curriculum Women Government assistance Science Sixth form education Physics GCE A-level

Link

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