What initiatives has the the Welsh Government put in place to increase the number of pupils studying STEMM subjects?
The Welsh Government has put in place a range of initiatives to enhance STEM participation and achievement. This financial year, the Welsh Government has committed over £1.6 million to support STEM learning in schools.
The Engineering Education Scheme Wales provides hands-on engineering experiences across primary, secondary and post-16, including projects such as the Formula 1 in Schools competition and the Girls into STEM programme.
The Institute of Physics delivers the Stimulating Physics Network and the Whole School Inclusion and Equity Project, which provide professional learning for both specialist and non-specialist practitioners to embed inclusive and engaging approaches to physics into their teaching.
The Maths Support Programme Wales is delivered by Swansea University and provides professional learning opportunities, tuition for learners and maths enrichment for pre and post-16 learners.
The Physics Mentoring Programme is delivered by Cardiff University and supports learners to access physics pathways post-16.
The Techniquest and Xplore science centres are supported to provide a range of STEM learning experiences, with a particular focus on learners from disadvantaged backgrounds who might not benefit from these experiences. As well as having interactive exhibits, the centres provide interactive workshops and lab experiences.
Swansea University’s Technocamps programme supports learners and practitioners to developing their confidence, knowledge and skills in computing, coding and digital technology.
As part of our Maths and Numeracy Plan, we are working with practitioners to develop a professional learning offer which will support effective and engaging maths teaching in our schools.
The Careers and Work-Related Experiences guidance focuses on encouraging learners to take up career opportunities related to Science and Technology, whether that be in engineering, with emerging technologies or in medicine. The guidance encourages greater employer engagement with schools, helping to broaden opportunities for learners and providing experiences that can inspire young people to pursue careers in these areas.