Friday, 26 August 2016
Following the recent A-level results, the Institution of Engineering and Technology has issued a statement highlighting the decline in students taking engineering ‘gateway subjects’, such as maths, physics, design and technology, as being a threat to UK economic growth.
Whilst A-level results may have declined, we believe that there are still plenty of ways that business can help to inspire the young engineers of the future. Bringing young people onto the shop floor and getting them living and breathing engineering is the perfect way to inspire the next generation. Vocational training gives young people a mix of academic and real-life experiences, allowing them to take on apprenticeships and learn on the job – a route that several members of the current Amcanu team have taken.
STEM activities across secondary schools are also a great way to encourage young people pre sixteen to engage with subjects that may then lead to a career in engineering. Our local school recently scooped two major STEM Awards at the Big Bang Event at the NEC – we were proud to support them on this journey as ultimately it is an investment in the future skills of our workforce.
With a variety of different pathways into engineering available, we believe business can play a crucial role in addressing the skills gap by making a firm commitment to offering youngsters opportunities to experience what a career in engineering can offer.
