The number of students completing A-level maths this year has risen 6% to 77,001, following a 12% increase last year. The CBI welcomed this increase, but said that around 83% of young people still give up studying formal maths beyond GCSE in England.
Numbers taking science A-levels also rose, and at a similar rate. Biology and chemistry entries rose by 4%, to 57,854 and 44,051 respectively, while entries to A-level physics rose by 5%. The number taking physics remains well below the other sciences, however, at 30,976.
Susan Anderson, CBI Director of Education & Skills, said:
“A-level students and teachers whose hard work has been rewarded today deserve our congratulations.
“It is especially encouraging to see that A-level maths entries have increased again. Maths is useful for all areas of study and a vital part of working life, and having a solid grasp of numeracy and maths is valued by all employers.
“But too many students are still giving maths up too early, with just 17% of young people taking maths post-16, which is why the CBI wants all students to be expected to continue with some form of maths study.”
Among the UK’s leading competitors, an “opt-in” culture for maths leads to much higher participation rates among 16-18 year-olds. For example, in Germany the study of maths is compulsory in all streams of the secondary education system, and in France 70% take maths post-16.
This year, with the highest ever number applying to go to university and a decrease in places available, it is a sad fact that not every qualified applicant will gain a place, even if they have achieved good grades.
Although students may not have planned a gap year, the CBI is urging those that have missed a place at university this year to use the time to increase their future employability skills.
Ms Anderson said: “It’s a sad fact that some students wanting to go to university will be disappointed this year by the shortage of available places and record competition.
“My message to these young people, and to those who didn’t make the grade this time, is don’t give up. There are a host of worthwhile opportunities out there and our advice is be proactive in working out what might be right for you.”
Options include:
- Getting work experience – employers place a high value on practical experience, so look for opportunities to get work experience at a local business.
- Work and study part-time – Post A-level qualifications such as foundation degrees or bachelor’s degrees can be studied alongside work, and some employers will meet some or all of the cost.
- Consider an apprenticeship – these are an excellent way to develop the skills that employers need, especially in newer sectors like low-carbon and advanced manufacturing. They also provide apprentices with workplace experience and wider employability skills.
- Look for volunteering opportunities – getting involved with volunteering displays the kind of positive approach that underpins a wide range of employability skills, and is a good way to learn new team-working techniques. Programmes such as vinspired and the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme provide particularly high-quality volunteering opportunities for young people across the country, but there are also many others that have strong links with employers and the charity sector.
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