GSCE students who have done better than they expected in science and maths are being encouraged to take those subjects forward to AS and A level. Geoff Jellis, Midlands Regional Director of the Engineering Development Trust says that the East Midlands region offers great prospects for students studying science subjects saying “The East Midlands is building an economic strategy based on innovative high tech businesses – we need many more students to be inspired into maths and science subjects if we are to have the skills base to service these future businesses.”
Jellis continues, “the problem for many students is that they constantly see images of people in the media and the arts on television and the other media but aren’t aware just what good and interesting jobs are available for those with a science and technology background. If they are showing an aptitude in these subjects at GCSE they should at least keep their options open by continuing these subjects into their AS and A level years so they have the option of being part of the region’s future in these industries.”
The Engineering Development Trust is an independent registered charity which runs schemes to inspire and motivate young people to choose a career in science, engineering and technology (SET). EDT runs schemes nationwide and annually involves over 5000 students across the UK. Geoff Jellis is keen that schools and businesses should be fully engaged in such projects. In particular he suggests that students try to get experience of projects which give them links into local science and technology businesses so they can see what sort of careers are on offer.
“The Engineering Education Scheme allows teams of year 12 students to undertake a real science and engineering project with a local company. We find that these students see a whole new area of opportunity as a result of the project and are then bubbling with enthusiasm for their ‘SET’ subjects”.
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Geoff Jellis is available for interview – contact directly on 07792 908 584 or 0115 951 6688 to make arrangements