HC Deb 05 March 2002 vol 381 cc249-50W
Mrs. Curtis-Thomas

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what initiatives the Government have in place to increase the number of students taking mathematics and physics A-level. [39701]

Mr. Ivan Lewis

[holding answer 4 March 2002]: Mathematics and science are at the heart of our agenda to raise standards. Pupils have a statutory entitlement to study both subjects within the national curriculum. In recognition of their importance for adult and working life, we propose to keep them as 'core' subjects for 14 to 16-year-olds in the Green Paper: "14–19 extending opportunities, raising standards".

Science Year is a key initiative to encourage young people to continue their study of science beyond the age of 16. We want young people to view science as relevant to the modern world and as the basis for rewarding careers. "Science and Engineering Ambassadors" is an initiative being developed through Science Year. Ambassadors—professionals in science, engineering, mathematics and technology—will act as role models and mentors for young people and will offer support to teachers.

Mrs. Curtis-Thomas

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills if she will make a statement on the retention rate of students(a) on engineering-based GNVQ courses and (b) on non engineering-based GNVQ courses. [39705]

Mr. Ivan Lewis

[holding answer 4 March 2002]: The retention rate (whole length of the course) for students on engineering GNVQ courses is 78 per cent., compared with 76 per cent. for students on non-engineering GNVQ courses.

Mrs. Curtis-Thomas

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills if she will make a statement on the effect the student funding system is having upon engineering and science graduates choosing to continue into postgraduate study. [39706]

Margaret Hodge

[holding answer 4 March 2002]: The number of home postgraduate students in science, engineering and technology rose from 69,201 in 1994–95 to 87,747 in 2000–01, an increase of 27 per cent. Recent changes to the student funding system apply to undergraduate rather than postgraduate students. The Government have already taken steps to improve the competitiveness of PhD stipends to ensure that doctoral study remains an attractive option for graduates with the minimum level for research councils' PhD stipends rising to £9,000 per year by 2003–04. The Government have also commissioned Sir Gareth Roberts to review the supply of high-level engineering and science skills.