¾ OF TEENS SAY SCIENCE IS IRRELEVANT

Two-thirds of teenagers do not believe science qualifications would help them to have rewarding careers.

A poll of 1,000 16- to 18-year-olds found that just over a quarter (28%) saw the sciences as relevant.

The study said that students were unaware of the range of career options - including in sectors such as fashion and sport - that studying sciences could open up for them.

Many young people have preconceived ideas about science subjects leading solely to laboratory jobs and wearing a white coat, it said.

The survey by the Science Council, which represents learned societies and professional institutions, warned that British pupils' negative view of science subjects was preventing huge numbers of them from having fulfilling and potentially lucrative careers.

Diana Garnham, the council's chief executive, said: "This research highlights the huge misperception about what studying the sciences can lead to.

"Scientists work everywhere in the economy making use of their science skills in industries such as finance, fashion, art and design, and sport.

"It's important we explain these options to students so they can make an informed choice about their career..."

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http://www.guardian.co.uk/education/2008/nov/07/science-careers-hamilton