Closing the STEM gap: How teachers shape the future workforce

Each year, new reports highlight the same challenge: a growing demand for STEM talent and a persistent gap between education and industry. However, recent research suggests the issue isn’t that schools aren’t doing enough to engage student scientists -  it’s that the system isn’t fully recognising the essential role teachers already play.

According to Science for All? School Science Education Policy and STEM Skills Shortages (Smith & White, 2024), decades of education reform and an increased focus on STEM subjects have not significantly boosted the number of graduates entering high-skilled STEM jobs. But this isn’t because students aren’t capable or interested. Instead, the problem lies in how the labour market values and supports STEM pathways. Poor incentives, limited employer investment and inconsistent recruitment practices are the real barriers.

That’s why, for schools, the focus shouldn’t simply be on producing more STEM graduates; it should instead be on building curiosity, critical thinking and confidence. When we do that, we prepare children not just for jobs, but for a future where they can adapt, innovate and thrive.

And this is where teachers come in. The evidence shows that early, hands-on STEM experiences can make a real difference. A 2023 study, Raising Primary School Boys’ and Girls’ Awareness and Interest in STEM-Related Activities, found that inquiry-based projects significantly boost pupils’ enjoyment, confidence and interest in STEM, with both boys and girls reporting greater motivation to pursue related careers.

However, the research also revealed that boys tend to develop stronger “ability beliefs” earlier than girls, meaning that girls may need more consistent encouragement and positive role models to build the same level of confidence. Introducing engaging STEM experiences early on, and ensuring girls feel that these subjects are “for them”, is key to changing long-term outcomes.

At Developing Experts, we’re proud to support teachers in leading that change. Our science lessons are designed to build curiosity and deeper thinking from EYFS to KS4, linking classroom learning to real-world applications and industry careers. Through hands-on investigations, interactive presentations and stories from STEM professionals, our lessons help children see themselves as scientists, engineers and innovators from the very start of their education journey.

By giving teachers the tools to deliver inspiring, curriculum-aligned STEM lessons, we can tackle the root causes of the skills gap: not by increasing supply, but by building lasting enthusiasm, understanding and self-belief in every pupil.

You can learn more, explore our resources and sign up for a free two-week trial by going to www.developingexperts.com today.