Applied science students: Examining progression routes from KS4

Start date: 1 May 2011
End date: 31 May 2012
Primary investigator: Dr Matt Homer
Co-investigators: 00045303

The aim of the study is to explore the pathways taken by students who succeed in applied science at KS4 in order to gain a better understanding of whether level 2 applied science qualifications are contributing, via appropriate post-16 courses, to the supply of people with STEM skills for employment.

In light of the Wolf Review and the recent government response, evidence is needed to confirm or contradict the assertion that for most students these level 2 courses do not provide meaningful pathways into further STEM education, and therefore do not help increase the set of STEM-related employment skills in the workforce.