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<p>The Government is committed to increasing the number of pupils taking science,
technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects including those from disadvantaged
backgrounds. There were 47,000 more exam entries to STEM A levels in 2018 compared
to 2010, which is an increase of 23%.</p><p>Good teaching is essential to increase
take-up of STEM subjects. The Department funds a number of programmes to support this
aim. These programmes include specific focus on schools with the greatest need, including
those in disadvantaged areas. This includes the £76 million of funding that the Department
provides for the network of maths hubs and the Teaching for Mastery programme, which
aims to reach 11,000 primary and secondary schools by 2023 and has specific focus
to support schools in greatest need. It also includes the Advanced Mathematics Support
Programme, which aims to increase participation and attainment in level 3 mathematics
with a focus on schools from disadvantaged areas, including schools in Opportunity
Areas.</p><p>In November 2018, the Department launched a new National Centre for Computing
Education, (NCCE) supported by £84 million of funding until July 2022. The aim of
the NCCE is to improve the quality of the teaching of computing. This programme will
help improve take-up and attainment of computing at GCSE and A level, with a focus
on schools in disadvantaged areas.</p><p>The Department also funds the national network
of Science Learning Partnerships, which supports science teachers to improve the quality
of science teaching, as well as the Stimulating Physics Network, which aims to increase
participation in A level physics, particularly among girls.<strong><br> <br> </strong></p>
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