"My Lords, encouraging more girls into STEM is vital for a diverse, skilled workforce. We have seen progress, with more girls taking STEM A-levels, particularly in biology and chemistry, although challenges remain in other STEM subjects. We are concerned at the barriers in front of girls, which particularly contribute to …..." Baroness Blake of Leeds - View Speech
"I think it is fair to say that I was not expecting that question, but I absolutely acknowledge and accept everything the noble Lord has said. The most important thing, of course, is that we all send our huge congratulations and recognise the contribution these young women are making, but …..." Baroness Blake of Leeds - View Speech
"I shall be honest: I have three girls, and they found their computing courses absolutely boring, and yet it should be one of the most inspiring subjects they can learn, so my noble friend is right. We are investing in this area and funding the National Centre for Computing Education’s …..." Baroness Blake of Leeds - View Speech
"I am somewhat disappointed that the noble Lord, Lord Baker, is not in his place because he would, I am sure, stand up to talk about university technical colleges. The work they are doing is a real template, and it just proves that, given the right opportunities, the right background …..." Baroness Blake of Leeds - View Speech
"We share the concerns outlined by my noble friend about workplace culture, and particularly its impact on women in STEM careers. We know that the STEM sector is crucial for future economic growth, employing 9.4 million people. Currently, women make up just 25% of the total STEM workforce in the …..." Baroness Blake of Leeds - View Speech
"First, we have to acknowledge that there is an issue, and the statistics are stark. Of course, maths is compulsory, as has been said. Following on into A-levels and beyond GCSEs, only 37% of girls take maths and only 27% take further maths. They are absolutely stepping stones to so …..." Baroness Blake of Leeds - View Speech
"I completely agree. The DfE funds the Careers & Enterprise Company, which works with 20 sector bodies and much wider. I emphasise the need for every school to take up the requirement for a qualified careers adviser to speak to every child in their school. One of the most heartbreaking …..." Baroness Blake of Leeds - View Speech
"I answered this question in the sense of needing to get into primary schools to start to change attitudes. Working with teachers and professionals is critical in this, and that is why we are investing in the workforce and training, and in getting a greater awareness of why there are …..." Baroness Blake of Leeds - View Speech
"That the draft Regulations laid before the House on 21 October be approved. Considered in Grand Committee on 4 December...." Baroness Blake of Leeds - View Speech
"My Lords, these technical regulations will ensure that the Down Syndrome Act 2022 is up to date with current NHS structures. There are an estimated 47,000 people in the United Kingdom with Down syndrome. Despite existing legal duties, individuals with Down syndrome continue to face significant challenges in accessing the …..." Baroness Blake of Leeds - View Speech