Concerns raised over lack of STEM uptake in Fife schools

Concerns were raised over a lack of children taking up STEM subjects in Fife secondary schools.

At Glenrothes area committee on Wednesday, councillors spoke out about the uptake of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) subjects – especially among young women.

Their comments came during a debate on a school attainment report.

Alan Pithie, rector at Auchmuty High School, said there was a concern over the number of students taking up STEM subjects, as well as a national shortage of teachers to fill posts.

Councillor Altany Craik said: “In terms of trying to get more children into STEM destinations, and particularly young women, where are we with that? Is there extra curricular activities to encourage people to take part?”

Mr Pithie told the committee: “STEM subjects are hugely focused on as part of the curriculum for excellence as there are national concerns over the lack of skilled people and we take that very seriously.

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“There are a range of extra curricular activities taking place, the engineering club has a good track record and we have a science partnership with Rathyon.”

Mr Pithie continued: “We also do a speed dating with employers, from different sectors across Fife. The kids can go to the booths and ask what sort of work they do.

“There are issues to be faced, as the country has a huge gap between what’s available in the job market and who is qualified to do it. Even in schools, we are a maths teacher and a CDT teacher down – we’ve had the vacancy available all year and like the rest of Scotland, have been unable to fill it.

“There is a demand on these subjects and also a real need.”

Councillor Fiona Grant, convener, noted that in the mid-Fife development plan, employers said there was a real gap in the jobs market.

Mr Pithie agreed, saying: “We need to have these skills in the workforce to be able to develop. It’s having a real impact. We have de-skilled ourselves.”