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The Government are committed to increasing the number of young people studying science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) as set out in the Science and Innovation Investment Framework and 2006 Next Steps. These commitments are focused on encouraging young people to study STEM subjects throughout the education system from the early stages and beyond. The Government are providing support for activities that help enthuse young people about engineering and science. For example, the Department for Children, Schools and Families sponsors the science and engineering after- school clubs run by STEMNET and the engineering education scheme which engages engineering companies with schools.
The DCSF is also in the process of commissioning a programme of careers support and guidance and a communications campaign, both with the aim of informing young people more about the varied and exciting opportunities that exist in STEM in pre and post-16 education and beyond.
From September 2008 young people will have the option of taking the Diploma in Engineering which will be available at all three levels 1, 2 and 3. The nature of the 14-19 Diploma programme means that young people acquire the education they need to progress to further learning and employment within the sectors that relate to their diploma of choice, and outside too.
The Department for Innovation, Universites and Skills funds the Science and Engineering Ambassadors scheme, run by STEMNET, for scientists and engineers to act as role models for schoolchildren. The DIUS also sponsors the Royal Academy of Engineering. One element of their work includes developing programmes to enthuse and engage young people in engineering subjects, for example, the Technology and Engineering in Schools Strategy (TESS), through which the professional community of engineering institutions and other stakeholders are taking a co-ordinated approach to work within schools to promote engineering and technology.
At HE level the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) is funding the National Engineering Programme (NEP), of which the London Engineering project is the first part to get off the ground. After creating a successful working model with the London pilot project, the programme will extend to six other cities in England. Managed by the Royal Academy of Engineering, aims the programme to change the face of UK higher education in engineering, widening participation and strengthening engineering as a strategic subject.