According to a report by EngineeringUK, studying science subjects could prepare the next generation of employees for when the economy recovers.

The Engineering UK: the state of engineering 2012 report states that by the time today's primary school pupils are of working age, the UK will need over two million additional engineers to meet demand. The engineering, manufacturing and science sectors are central to ensuring economic growth through developing and exploiting emerging technologies, but this can only be achieved if future graduates have skills rooted in mathematics and the sciences.

Paul Jackson, Chief Executive of EngineeringUK, said, 'The Government is recognising the need to promote and grow the UK's engineering capabilities; however we will not meet demand if we don't act now to ensure the talent pipeline of the future.

'We need to get the message to every parent, teacher and young person in the UK: "take physics and maths". If a lack of skilled workers means that we can't take advantage of emerging technologies, the industry and the jobs will go elsewhere.'

Business Minister, Mark Prisk, said, 'As this report shows, engineers will be at the forefront of our rebalanced economy, which is why we are working now to encourage young people to think about a career in engineering.'

The report reveals positive indications for the uptake of Science and Mathematics at GCSE and A-Level, however challenges still exist in encouraging girls to take Mathematics and Physics A-Levels.

Further information

Read the report, Engineering UK: the state of engineering 2012