Question

To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities, what recent progress she has made on encouraging girls to consider a range of careers.

The Government is ensuring that girls are able to consider a broad range of career opportunities. For example, the Your Life campaign aims to significantly increase the numbers of girls taking A Level physics and maths within three years, and double the proportion of undergraduate engineering and technology degrees taken by women to 30% by 2030. It also asks employers to take action to recruit and retain female talent.

We have seen progress, with the number of girls taking science and maths at A level increasing by 12% between 2010 and 2014 and there are now more girls than ever taking these subjects.

We are also establishing a new employer-led careers and enterprise company to support greater engagement between employers, schools and colleges. Chaired by Christine Hodgson (Chair, Capgemini UK), it will be independent of Government and will ensure young people get the inspiration and guidance they need to leave school or college ready to succeed in working life.