Maths And Science Could Become Compulsory Subjects For Year 11 And 12 Students

Good news, everyone?

A new proposal by federal Education Minister Christopher Pyne could see maths or science become compulsory subjects for all year 11 and 12 students.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, the Minister will request the changes at an Education Council Meeting this Friday.

Right now, maths and science are not compulsory for upper school students in Victoria, New South Wales and the ACT. Students in Queensland and South Australia are required to take one maths subject in their final years.

The call is seen as a response to Australia’s declining performance in international testing.

Australian students rank 16th in science and 19th in mathematics, worldwide. Previously, Australia held positions 10 and 15 for those subjects, respectively.

The government has estimated 75 per cent of the fastest-growing job sectors require science, technology, engineering or maths (STEM) skills.

Australia undeniably needs to improve our rankings if we wish to compete on a global scale; for the sake of future generations. However, should students whose skills lay elsewhere be made to study science or maths, especially during their already stressful final years of high school?

Let us know your thoughts below!