The government is ramping up efforts to boost the number of girls studying math at A-level, aiming to steer more of them toward careers in artificial intelligence (AI).
The Department for Education (DfE) is pouring £8.3 million into the Advanced Maths Support Programme. The focus is on helping 400 disadvantaged secondary schools across England, with the hope of getting more girls into advanced math classes. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson emphasizes that this initiative is about breaking down barriers for pupils who might not see a math qualification or an AI career as accessible. She states, “Today’s brightest math minds will be tomorrow’s AI pioneers, and this government aims to include groups that have been overlooked in the AI revolution.”
Socio-economic background can significantly influence a child’s educational opportunities. In the UK, around 1.7 million households lack internet access, which widens the technology diversity gap. This is problematic; as AI evolves, concerns grow about inherent biases creeping into these systems if the teams behind them lack diversity.
Right now, only about a third of A-level math students are girls, and women represent just 22% of the AI workforce. This investment from the DfE is part of a broader Plan for Change introduced in December 2024. The plan focuses on leveling the educational playing field so all children, regardless of their background or location in England, have equal access to education.
The government is keen on this initiative due to its AI opportunities action plan, which aims to increase AI adoption, create jobs, and enhance the UK’s economic prospects. By helping more girls gain the math skills essential for AI careers, the government seeks to address both educational equity and the future demand for skilled workers.
Many girls shy away from tech careers, often perceiving the necessary subjects as “too hard,” and some later regret not pursuing them. Starting in September, the updated Advanced Maths Support Programme will include training for both teachers and students on the math skills crucial for AI careers. This ensures educators can effectively teach these skills and that girls understand what an AI-driven future entails.
To keep pace with the demand for digital and AI skills, the education secretary has enlisted a panel of experts to guide how best to equip students from ages five to 18. This push to get more girls into AI careers through accessible math education stems from recommendations by the Digital, AI and Technology Task and Finish Group, featuring experts from University College London, the Raspberry Pi Computing Education Research Centre, and the BCS Schools and Colleges Committee.
Science Secretary Peter Kyle remarks on the plan, saying, “AI is the defining technology of our generation, improving public services, sparking economic growth, and unlocking future jobs. We can harness this potential if we cultivate a pipeline of talent equipped with the necessary skills.” He adds that this support package is a crucial first step in ensuring young people are prepared for an AI-centric future.