Girls in STEM
Girls in STEM: igniting a passion for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths
Data shows that women make up only 30% of the STEM workforce in the UK. The STEM gender gap is not only problematic for equality, but also for the growing national STEM skills shortage. Many girls form their perceptions about their abilities in STEM subjects, such as Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths, during primary and secondary education. Societal stereotypes and unconscious biases can discourage girls from opting to study traditionally male-dominated STEM subjects. By fostering inclusive and supportive environments, schools and parents alike can give girls the tools to thrive in STEM, opening up a world of possibilities. If your daughter is interested in STEM, read on to find out how you can help her to shatter that glass ceiling.
Spark an interest in STEM from an early age
Girls are often exposed to societal stereotypes that suggest that STEM subjects are ‘male-dominated’ and ‘not for girls’ from a young age. The early years are a crucial time to support a natural curiosity for STEM subjects, divert gender stereotypes, and begin boosting girls’ confidence.
Choosing a school that has a culture where girls feel welcome, supported, and encouraged in STEM is key. The Queen’s School in Chester is committed to closing the gender gap in STEM and empowering girls. Headmistress of The Queen’s School, Joanne Keville says: “One of the most important things you can give your daughter is self-confidence and self-belief – qualities that I am proud to say Queen’s delivers in abundance. Girls’ schools minimise stereotyped, gender-weighted expectations. There is no such thing as a girl’s subject or a boy’s subject, and girls are free to follow their inclinations with little of the pressure they might otherwise feel.”
Break down gender stereotypes
Closing the gender gap in STEM careers not only ensures equal opportunities, but is crucial for innovation. Girls and women bring unique perspectives and ideas to problem-solving, which are essential for addressing the global challenges of the future – such as climate change, healthcare, and technology.
Schools have a huge role to play by creating safe and inclusive spaces for girls to excel in STEM. STEM learning is integrated across all areas of the curriculum at The Queen’s School. Joanne Keville continues: “The facts speak for themselves. Independent research shows that girls who attend independent girls’ schools are more likely to study STEM subjects at A-level and beyond than girls in any other type of UK school, including independent co-ed schools. Last year at Queen’s, nearly 80% of students opted to take at least one STEM subject at A-level, with 79% of the grades achieved at A*- B, proving once again the value of all-girls education in removing barriers and empowering students to not be afraid to pursue traditionally perceived male-dominated subjects. We are very proud to see an increasing number of girls going on to study subjects such as computer science, physics, astronomy, maths and engineering at university.”
Boost her confidence
Many girls internalise the belief that STEM is ‘too difficult’ and ‘not for them’. This can lead to a lack of self-belief, even if they have the same level of potential in STEM as their male classmates. Early confidence-building can help girls to develop resilience and trust in their abilities.
STEM subjects often require experimentation, failure, and trying again. Hands-on activities that encourage curiosity – such as coding games, competitions, experiments, and interactive projects – help to build confidence. This shows girls that they are capable of excelling in STEM.
Encouraging girls to take risks develops their critical thinking, problem solving, and analytical skills, as well as creativity and teamwork. Empowering girls to succeed in STEM not only prepares them for STEM careers, but also helps them to thrive in all areas of life.
Empower and inspire her
At The Queen’s School, pupils are surrounded by female role models – from their peers, senior girls and staff, to prefects and alumnae who return to talk about their journeys and become mentors.
Real-world experiences are also crucial for encouraging girls to pursue STEM careers. At The Queen’s School, girls are encouraged to take part in local and national competitions to extend their knowledge and confidence, such as the Bebras coding challenge, Physics and Biology Olympiads, and UKMT Maths challenges. STEM clubs fuel further curiosity, as does the experiential approach which every teacher embraces, encouraging pupils to question and take risks as part of their learning, without fear of getting it wrong. The increasing number of girls from Queen’s who go on to study STEM subjects at university is a testament to the impact of their learning environment.
Head of Lower School Iona Carmody says: “Embedding interest and curiosity in STEM subjects at primary age is something we value greatly at the Lower School. It is part of this commitment and our celebration of STEM that led us to launch two brand new events this year. Junior Scientists and Junior Mathematicians are exciting mornings of fun for girls to get a taste of what we offer. It is never too early to ignite and nurture a passion for STEM.”
Tips for parents
Parents and guardians have a significant role to play in helping girls to excel in STEM. Things that you can do at home include:
- Support their interest: Encouraging your daughter can make a world of difference. Support her interest through co-curricular clubs, and champion her ambitions.
- Challenge outdated perceptions: Science, technology, computing and maths should be presented as universal fields, that everyone can excel at, regardless of gender. Gender-neutral messaging is key – avoid using ‘for girls’ and ‘for boys’ labelling.
- Encourage STEM learning at home: Give your daughter access to inclusive toys such as construction toys, coding and science kits. Download STEM learning apps and take them on trips to museums.
- Highlight real-world impact: Showing how STEM is important for social good can make it seem more appealing to girls. Inspire your daughter by discussing how it can solve global challenges.
- Representation matters: Be conscious of media, ensuring that the movies, TV shows, and books your daughter is exposed to feature positive representations of women in STEM.
Opening the door to success in STEM
By inspiring, supporting, and igniting a passion in STEM, The Queen’s School ensures that girls enter these fields with enthusiasm and determination. This not only gives young women access to the fastest-growing and highest-paying sectors in the global economy, but also enriches the diversity and innovation of the STEM industries as a whole. Let’s create a world where girls can truly excel in STEM.
Join a school where girls are leading the charge in STEM innovation. With places available in some year groups now, and for September 2025, contact our Admissions Team by emailing admissions@thequeensschool.co.uk or call 01244 312078 to find out more.