We all know the importance of getting a good education as a foundation for the future, and for many young people preparing for exams this year and considering their future, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Maths) jobs maybe in their thoughts.

Last year Engineering UK found that over the next decade we will need an extra 1.82m engineers in our economy to stay competitive in the global marketplace. Yet recent research shows that just 21% of those working in STEM jobs are women.

Mary said: “The Government has been encouraging girls to take up STEM subjects at GCSE & A-Level and since 2010 there have been more than 12,000 additional female entrants at A-level to STEM subjects. However, more still needs to be done to encourage all young people into STEM Careers, which can not only pay an average of 20% more than other fields, but can also provide inspiring and very challenging careers.”

Mary is backing the Governments ‘Your Life’ campaign which aims to show the dynamic career opportunities unlocked by studying Science and Maths. There are great employers in science, technology and engineering on our door step here in Cheadle and it would be fantastic to see future jobs in this sector taken up by local young people. So if you are a student about to pick your options for GCSE and A-Level and want to find out more about STEM careers why not take a look at www.yourlife.org.uk