Section Contents
People often talk of a skills crisis, although we believe we're not there yet.
14-19 Review
Overview
To sustain a dynamic environment for economic growth, it is imperative that the teaching of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects and provision of skilled scientists and engineers are made central to the UK’s strategy on skills.
However, we know that the largest proportion of drop-out from potential employment in STEM occupations occurs at age 16 when young people have completed their GCSEs or Standard Grades and make choices regarding further study.
New developments such as the English Diplomas in schools are designed to address issues related to this. Cogent is working in conjunction with partner Sector Skills Councils to develop three of the Diplomas and related initiatives.
Entry into the Sector
Vital to the continued success of businesses in our sector is a good supply of welleducated and trained young people. We have reviewed the available information on the potential flow of young people into the sector, and the public policy factors affecting this age group, and the key issues are highlighted below:
Population Projections
| Population | Percentage of total UK population | |
|---|---|---|
| England | 50,762,900 | 83.8 |
| Wales | 2,965,900 | 4.9 |
| Scotland | 5,116,900 | 8.4 |
| Northern Ireland | 1,741,600 | 2.9 |
| United kingdom | 60,587,300 |
Numbers of 16 and 18 year olds are set to decline from 2009-2010 onwards. This will have important implications on the intake to the Cogent industries. A smaller pool of ‘new talent’ means more competition in attracting young people to a career within the Cogent footprint.
Key Challenges
STEM Subjects
The flow of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects is very important to Cogent’s future workforce. The problem of needing a replacement supply, because of the ageing workforce, is exacerbated by a decline in the population of young people and the demand for STEM skills across many employment sectors. According to recent research (Cogent, 2007) there is a projected decline in the population of 16 and 18 years olds between 2006 and 2016. Accordingly, Information, Advice and Guidance are important to promote the importance of STEM subjects and the benefits of a career in a STEM area.
Actions have already been set in place by Cogent to overcome this challenge. The Cogent web-based careers information and guidance tool, Careers Pathways, has been developed and is being used by individuals to improve understanding of careers in the sector.
School Leaving Age: Changes to the Law
The Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills has confirmed plans to raise the school leaving age in England to 17 years of age by 2013, with an aim of 90% participation in education or training among 17 year olds by 2015. A requirement to participate until 18 years will be introduced at a later stage. These changes will give Cogent the opportunity to raise participation in STEM subjects for 14 to 19 year olds.