Bright kids should study triple science
Monday, 11 Aug 2008 00:02
Bright school kids should be automatically signed up for triple science, CBI says
Science In Focus
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Bright school kids should be automatically entered for triple science GCSE, a leading business group claimed today.
The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) said students would not be forced to sit the exams but should be signed up and then encouraged not to opt out.
The group said the move would help more young people to fulfil their science potential by providing a better preparation for science at A-level and opening doors to future careers in science.
Concerns have been expressed by many groups and academics at low student uptake of science subjects and former prime minister Tony Blair urged more children to opt for science beyond GCSE to help Britain's competitive prospects.
At present just seven per cent of 16-year-olds study triple science, which covers physics, chemistry and biology and is worth three GCSEs.
The rest take the less comprehensive double or single GCSE combined science.
The government has promised that from September students getting level 6 or above in their science SATs will be 'entitled' to study triple science. But the CBI says extra steps must be taken.
Richard Lambert, the CBI's director-general, said students "are missing out".
"They are doing better than ever in science tests at 14, but hardly any are going on to study triple science GCSE, despite the opportunities and learning it offers," he added.
""We need to create an environment in schools that reflects the importance of science, and the value of studying it. We also need to send an unambiguous message to young people who are good at science that science as a career can be fascinating and worthwhile, and will reward you well."
Professor Roger Ainsworth, master of St Catherine's College and professor of engineering science at the University of Oxford, said: "I strongly endorse the idea of encouraging more children to take triple combined science, rather than the less comprehensive single or double science GCSE.
"Rewarding careers are to be found in science and engineering at all levels, and anything which encourages young people on paths in these directions is greatly to be encouraged."