Girl Power in Maths and STEM 

The maths department hosted an inspiring ‘Girls in STEM’ session designed to empower and encourage girls to pursue their interests in maths. The session highlighted the diverse range of degree pathways and career opportunities available to those studying A-Level Maths, Further Maths, and Core Maths, sparking curiosity and enthusiasm for future possibilities.

With a large audience of over 40 pupils mainly from the 4th Year, but also including pupils from the 3rd and 5th Years, the event featured three speakers who have used their maths qualifications to launch their careers and pursue further studies.

Yana Pascoe, now an optometrist in Penzance, explained that her A-Level Maths has been a great building block for her studies and is invaluable in her daily problem-solving at work. She also highlighted the value of an AS in Further Maths alongside her other three A-Levels for her university applications.

Emily St Pier spoke about her Physics Master’s Degree, her recent research trip to Germany exploring twin galaxies, and the mathematical modelling required for this. As a natural mathematician, she always thought she would do a maths degree, but her mathematical skills have opened the door to wider opportunities in STEM.

Téa Clark recorded a short talk as she is currently pursuing her PhD at Warwick; she shared how choosing Maths and Further Maths A-level opened up numerous opportunities for her. Initially thinking she might pursue aeronautical engineering, she has now transitioned to some fascinating work in synthetic biology. She had no idea that this topic existed until studying Engineering at university, and is now part of a world leading research team in the area. You can watch Téa’s video here.

Mrs Ellis expressed her excitement about the turnout and engagement of the 3rd to 5th Year girls at the inspirational talk. She praised the pupils for their maturity and the sensible questions they asked, helping them to make informed choices about their futures. She extended heartfelt thanks to Yana, Emily, and Téa for their contributions and insights which prompted such positive discussions about increasing women in STEM.

The key takeaway from the session was to encourage girls to let their love of maths drive their choices for future study without the fear of being in the minority, with the event highlighting the fact that Further Maths is not just for boys, but a highly worthwhile option for girls.

A-Level Maths and Further Maths can be studied at A-Level, and an AS in Further Maths is also an option. Core Maths is an alternative Sixth Form pathway for those wanting a one-year applied maths course to complement their other studies. You can read more about our Sixth Form Courses on the link below: