Boys jumped ahead of girls in maths and science during pandemic

by · Mail Online

 Boys have raced far ahead of girls in maths and science ability since the pandemic, new research shows.

While previously the two sexes were previously neck-and-neck in the subjects, a report from University College London (UCL) found that boys have now taken a large lead.

Researchers said low confidence could be among the factors affecting girls, as data shows those who believe in their own ability are likely to score higher.

It comes amid concerns many capable girls are not choosing maths and science paths because of gender stereotyping around these subjects.

The research, published in partnership with the Department for Education (DfE), compared performance in 2019 and 2023.

It examined overall test scores by pupils aged 13 to 14 across 267 schools as part of the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (Timss).

In maths, boys scored 538 in 2023, 26 points ahead of girls - who scored 512.

This compares with 516 for boys in 2019, only 2 points ahead of girls - who scored 514.

Researchers said low confidence could be among the factors affecting girls, as data shows those who believe in their own ability are likely to score higher (stock image)
The study, which also looked at scores from around the world, found the maths gender gap in England was the largest of all countries (stock image)
The study examined overall test scores by pupils aged 13 to 14 across 267 schools as part of the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (stock image)

Meanwhile, in science, boys scored 538 in 2023, 14 points ahead of girls - who scored 524.

In 2019, boys scored only 515 - which was three points behind the girls’ score of 518.

Dr Jennie Golding, the study’s co-principal investigator, said: ‘Over the last 20 years, boys and girls have achieved similar scores in Timss in both mathematics and science.

‘It is difficult to say exactly why this gap has opened up, but our findings point to some factors including confidence, a sense of belonging and absenteeism.

‘However, more research is needed to understand the reasons fully.’

The report said: ‘Across all attitudinal factors... pupils’ confidence in their ability was most strongly associated with performance.

‘Pupils who were very confident in mathematics scored over 100 scale points higher, on average, compared to their peers who were not confident.’

The study, which also looked at scores from around the world, found the maths gender gap in England was the largest of all countries.

However, there were also gaps in Australia, New Zealand and the United States.Tanya Tracey, of the charity Girls Are Investors, which encourages girls into the finance sector, said many have a fear of failure and lack confidence.

She told the BBC: ‘Part of the job is knowing you won’t get it right all the time - that’s a surprise to many girls.‘They always think they have to be perfect.’

Previously the two sexes were previously neck-and-neck in the subjects, a report from University College London (stock image)

The Timss study uses a special scale which is distinct from other tests, with pupils in most countries scoring between 400 and 600.

Schools Minister Catherine McKinnell said: ‘This report reinforces the baked-in inequalities that remain in our education system.

‘That’s why we will continue to promote STEM (science, technology, engineering, and maths) subjects, especially among girls, through a range of initiatives and, more broadly, have launched the independent, expert-led Curriculum and Assessment Review to look at how to make sure all children receive a cutting-edge school experience and an excellent foundation in maths no matter their background.’