Before we get into these options, what do the results show?
1. The proportion of students taking Physics and Maths is on the up – even amongst girls!
Between 2016 and 2018, the proportion of students taking Physics increased from 4.2% to 4.7%, and in Maths, from 11% to 12%. Furthermore, the proportion of girls taking both subjects has also increased compared to last year, by 3.4% in Physics and 0.6% in Maths.2. They are also doing better in those subjects
The proportion of students achieving at least a grade B in Maths increased from 64.2% to 64.8% and in Physics, 50.0% to 50.3%.
3. A sign of the times, Computing is becoming increasingly popular
Last year 8,299 students took Computing, this increased to 10,286 this year – with a big jump in the number of girls taking Computing too (816 in 2017 to 1,211 in 2018).What are those great opportunities you mentioned?
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships are a great way to earn while you learn, acquire invaluable experience in the manufacturing industry and you can even get a degree!
Yet still, only 7% of leavers at key stage 5 (A levels or equivalent) go on to an apprenticeship:
As well as continuing to promote Apprenticeships to young people, we hope that the introduction of T Levels (if implemented correctly) could drive these numbers up in the near future.So, if you have a knack for problem-solving and ambitious about your career goals, an apprenticeship is a great route to a successful career in manufacturing. Check out these videos and hear from apprentices at EEF’s Technology Hub in Aston on why doing an apprenticeship is so great: https://www.eef.org.uk/apprentices/become-an-apprentice
University
Studying a STEM degree at university is also another great way to pursue a career in manufacturing. Earnings in manufacturing are almost £4,000 a year higher than the economy average. In addition, those that study other STEM subjects, such as Computer Science and Engineering and Technology, closely follow this.
What if I didn’t take STEM subjects?
But you don’t always need a STEM degree to work in manufacturing, you only need to ask our Chair Judith Hackitt. More and more manufacturers are looking for individuals with good business acumen and digital skills. So if you have these skills, why not consider a career in a rapidly changing industry…
Whatever you do choose to do, good luck!