9 Accepted

We welcome Ofsted’s recent report examining science education in primary and secondary schools.

Conclusion
We welcome Ofsted’s recent report examining science education in primary and secondary schools. However, some contributors to our inquiry suggested that given the importance of inspection, it could do more to encourage diversity and inclusion in STEM education.
Government Response Summary
The government states that Ofsted plays an important role in ensuring pupils have access to high quality STEM teaching and considers the breadth of the curriculum and equal access to education during school inspections.
Paragraph Reference
76
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government Accepted
13. Ofsted plays an important role in ensuring all pupils have access to a broad, ambitious, knowledge-rich curriculum that includes high quality STEM teaching. Through school inspection, inspectors consider the breadth of the curriculum, and the extent to which pupils have equal access to high-quality education. Ofsted specifically considers the extent to which a school’s curriculum is designed and implemented in ways that will raise aspirations, including for a future STEM career, and will address any barriers to girls’ take up of STEM subjects, and among pupils who are disadvantaged or with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
Addressee Bodies
Department for Science, Innovation and Technology
Timeline
Recommendation age 3.2 yrs
Report published 24 Mar 2023