Choose STEM

Young people across Scotland are being urged to consider studying science, technology, engineering or maths (STEM) by Science Minister Shirley-Anne Somerville.

As schools and colleges prepare to resume classes after the festive break, many students will begin to think about which qualifications to take next academic year.

Ms Somerville said:

“The new year is when many of us plan for the future, and so now is the ideal time to think about the benefits of studying one or more STEM subjects.

“Students returning to class, especially in secondary schools, will shortly be considering which qualifications to take next academic year.

“STEM subjects can open the door to significant and wide-ranging career opportunities: as well as improving literacy, numeracy and confidence, they can also provide the specialist knowledge and skills necessary to work in the ever-increasing STEM sectors of the economy and continue Scotland’s proud history of excellence and innovation in STEM.

“Young people now have more STEM courses than ever to choose to study at school and college – reflecting the wide range of careers out there for young people to progress to. That is why I am urging young people, and in particular young women, across the country to think creatively about their subject and career options and seriously consider choosing a future in STEM.  The careers, occupations and life skills that rely on STEM are diverse and range from healthcare and medicine, animal health, engineering and construction to design , beauty, tourism, music, retail and financial services.” 

It comes as the Scottish Government formally seeks views on its draft STEM education and training strategy.

The Minister continued:

“Our comprehensive and ambitious strategy for STEM education and training brings together the action already underway to promote STEM skills in Scotland with the Scottish Government’s future plans for the subjects.

“We are keen to hear from everyone with an interest in this matter – especially education providers, employers and parents – about how STEM skills and education could be improved and developed. Our consultation closes on 31 January so there is still time to have a say.” 

Background

The draft strategy for consultation is available here: https://consult.scotland.gov.uk/stem/a-stem-education-and-training-strategy/

The consultation will run until 31 January 2017.