UK’s fetish for STEM subjects? Faith Cunningham Bancroft’s School

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The holy trinity of A-Level subjects; Biology, Chemistry and Maths. Not only is this the most popular combo at A-Level, but it paves the way for future veterinarians, doctors and dentists, engineers and software developers. But, accounting for 30% of all A-Levels taken in 2020, this trend introduces the burning question. What is happening to all the other subjects?

At Bancroft’s school, North House had a careers session where sixth formers sat at desks, organised by A-Level subjects, for years below to browse their options. Whilst there was a breadth of options including the sciences, both modern and early history, the humanities, electronics, languages and music, it was clear there was a favoured side of the room. The French, Spanish and German tables seemed to repel rather than attract whilst STEM subjects garnered attention. 

 

This translates to Britain’s further education, where UCAS published statistics in early 2021 revealing that more of the youth are taking STEM subjects at university. It is at an all time high. At first glance, this can only be positive for the country as it addresses the STEM skills shortage and allows the economy to grow, making the UK a powerhouse for science and innovation. Since 2016, almost all humanities subjects have decreased in A-Level entries, even when the decline in the 18-year old population is taken into consideration. In a world where AI and technology hold our attention for the future, our arts and literature bear the brunt. Yet, the analysis and communication skills in MFL and the humanities, the ability to connect with people within and across borders is more important than ever, following Britain’s exit from the European Union. 

 

So let’s look into this phenomenon further, why are STEM subjects so heavily favoured and what does it mean for us in the future as a country?

 

What may be attractive to prospective A-Level and undergraduate students is the preconceived idea of a higher salary with STEM subjects, and respect. Parental pressures for stability and financial security of a profession in medicine, for example, could be a motivator for this choice. After a decade of organisations pushing for girls and minority groups to take up STEM, the percentage of girls taking full-time STEM related courses at university has skyrocketed by almost 50%. I want to make clear that there are obviously many STEM students who have genuine interest and passion for these subjects or future professions. 

 

So, as an A-Level student who is half and half in this affair (Biology and Maths as well as French and English Literature), I urge you to try to pick a balanced diet of subjects if your entry requirements for a desired university degree allow it. Having a mixture of skills, both numerical and communicative, could be a good idea!





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