As schools across the region consider their GCSE and A-level results, the CBI has called for all bright children to be automatically entered for ‘Triple science’ at GCSE, to help ensure a skilled science-base for the future.

A GCSE in Triple science, which covering physics, chemistry and biology, and is worth three GCSEs, is currently taken by just 7% of 16-year-olds. The rest take the less comprehensive Double or Single-GCSE combined science. 



The Government has promised that from September students getting Level 6 or above in their science SATs will be ‘entitled’ to study Triple science. However, the CBI believes further steps need to be taken, including automatically opting 14-year-olds getting Level 6 for Triple science GCSE.

The CBI wants many more young people to fulfill their science potential by taking Triple science, arguing that it provides a better preparation for science at A-level, and opens doors to new and exciting future career opportunities, and will help Britain prosper. 



Students would be encouraged to broaden their science education - but would not be forced to do so. The choice to opt-out and take Double science would remain.
 The policy would affect approximately 250,000 14-year olds student each year – the 40% who get Level 6 or above in their key stage 3 SATs.



Malcolm Hyde, the CBI’s South East Regional Director, said: “Young people are missing out. They are doing better than ever in science tests at 14, but hardly any are going on to study Triple science GCSE, despite the opportunities and learning it offers.

“We need to create an environment in schools that reflects the importance of science, and the value of studying it. We also need to send an unambiguous message to young people who are good at science that science as a career can be fascinating and worthwhile, and will reward you well.

“Parents want the best for their children and they need to understand that Triple science provides just that. Science skills gained today can be the pathway to a great career tomorrow. It is essential that all our children have the chance of the best possible science education, if they are to enjoy the employment opportunities of the future.”

The call from the CBI has also been welcomed by senior figures in business. James Smith, Chairman of Shell UK Ltd, a leading CBI member company, said: “Application of advanced science and technology has never been more important to the energy industry. There are great careers available in making sure the world has the energy it needs and in tackling climate change. Incentives for more children to take science at school could help produce the next generations of scientists and engineers that our industry really needs.”

Bob Taylor, Managing Director of Generation for energy company E.ON, added: “We’re facing a massive £160bn investment in the energy sector to rebuild and transform our ageing infrastructure. This will need a whole new generation of engineers and scientists to design, construct, operate and maintain new power stations and networks, and to drive innovation in low-carbon technologies. Finally we seem to have a policy initiative which gets right to the heart and addresses the difficult underlying issues of science and maths education in school and higher education.”



The CBI says the policy of opting in students for Triple science requires more specialist science teachers and more money for equipment and labs. Specialist teachers raise attainment by bringing their subjects to life.

Malcolm Hyde added: “The Government must also accelerate the pace of its £45 billion programme to improve school buildings and labs. Only 13 of the planned 100 schools by 2009 have been opened. We need effective and focused leadership to speed up this investment.”