Chemical Engineers back GCSE science revamp

Plans proposed by the CBI to allow top UK science students to study single-science GCSEs are being backed by the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE)

The Confederation of British Industries (CBI) wants schoolchildren who score well at Science in SAT exams to be given the opportunity to study biology, chemistry and physics as three separate GCSEs, rather than work toward the existing 'Double Science' GCSE.

Dr David Brown, Chief Executive of IChemE says it's a sensible idea: "We unanimously support this decision - it is something we have been championing for some time.

The best and brightest science students should be able to pursue their passion in greater depth - it's good for them and will be good for industry and the UK economy.

From a chemical engineering perspective, giving students the opportunity to develop a thorough grounding in physics and chemistry will better equip them for Further and Higher education.

We also believe it will encourage more students to consider studying single-sciences at A level, thus also increasing applications to study subjects like chemical engineering at university" said Brown.

Critics have suggested the plan would be undermined by a shortage of specialist science teachers.

In June, it was revealed that just one in four UK schools has any specialist physics teachers.

"We need better incentives to attract the best scientists into teaching" added Brown.

"Let's find ways to reward those that become the best teachers and tell the world all about them.

We need to raise the profile, status and image of science teachers, as well as teaching science as a career path".

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