STEM Careers That Will Unlock the Door to Success

26/01/2023 / Science Tuition

STEM careers, or careers in science, technology, engineering, and maths, are some of the most in-demand and lucrative fields in today’s job market. These careers often require a strong foundation in maths and science, as well as technical skills and problem-solving abilities.

One of the key benefits of pursuing a STEM career is the potential for high earning potential. According to the UK Office for National Statistics, STEM occupations have a median annual wage that is significantly higher than the median wage for all occupations. For example, computer and information technology occupations have a median annual wage of £41,500, while engineering occupations have a median annual wage of £40,500.

In addition to offering strong earning potential, STEM careers also tend to be stable and have strong job growth. Many STEM occupations are expected to experience faster-than-average job growth over the next decade, making them a good choice for those looking for a secure and rewarding career path. If your child is interested in a STEM career, you can be certain that there will be plenty of job opportunities for them, especially if they have achieved quality educational outcomes. 

Why Are STEM Careers in Demand?

STEM careers are in high demand for several reasons but some of the most significant are economic factors that put the need for innovation as a priority, requiring people with STEM skills to develop new products and improve existing ones.

STEM careers also play a critical role in addressing some of the biggest challenges facing society today, such as climate change, healthcare, and energy security, impacting the future world for us, and the generations that will come after.

Sadly, the low take up of STEM in universities has stalled the level of progress that the country had hoped to see. Some of the reasons for this issue include lower numbers of STEM applicants, lack of diversity in candidates, record-lows of apprenticeship availability and poor funding of STEM education. With the new push for STEM participation, now is an excellent time for young people to consider a career in a STEM-related subject.

Salary Expectations for STEM Careers

Salaries for STEM careers in the UK can vary depending on factors such as the specific field, the employee’s level of education and experience, and the location of the job. In general, however, STEM careers tend to come with higher than average earning potential. Here are some general salary ranges for some common STEM fields in the UK:

• Computer Science and IT – entry-level positions in these fields typically start around £20,000 to £25,000 per year, while experienced professionals can earn £40,000 to £70,000 or more.
• Engineering –  salaries for engineers can vary widely depending on the specific field of engineering, but starting salaries for graduates typically range from £24,000 to £30,000. Experienced engineers can earn £40,000 to £80,000 or more, with some earning six-figure salaries.
• Biotechnology and Life Sciences – Entry-level positions in these fields typically start around £20,000 to £25,000 per year, while experienced professionals can earn £40,000 to £70,000 or more.
• Mathematics and Physics – Entry-level positions in these fields typically start around £20,000 to £30,000 per year, while experienced professionals can earn £40,000 to £70,000 or more.

It’s worth noting that these are general ranges and actual salaries will depend on the specific role, company, and location. It’s also worth remembering that many STEM jobs in the UK offer additional benefits such as bonuses, pensions, and healthcare, which can also impact total compensation and play a big part in graduates being able to negotiate packages that suit their specific needs.

UK STEM Charities That Offer Extra Curriculum STEM Opportunities

Bringing STEM subjects to life is often a great way to engage young people and get them excited about taking STEM into their future. We are lucky in the UK many STEM charities in the UK that work to promote science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education and research. Here are a few examples:

The Smallpiece Trust

The Smallpiece Trust is a UK-based charity that provides residential courses in science, engineering, and technology for young people aged 14 to 18. The trust was established in memory of Dr. Cyril Smallpiece, a former headmaster and educationalist, with the goal of encouraging young people to pursue careers in these fields.

The courses offered by the trust are designed to be hands-on and interactive, and are led by experienced professionals in the field. The trust also offers bursaries to financially support students in attending the courses.

The Royal Society

The Royal Society is a UK-based independent scientific academy that promotes excellence in science. It was founded in 1660 and it is the oldest scientific society in continuous existence.

One of the main goals of the Royal Society is to support and promote scientific education and research, particularly for young people.

They offer a range of educational programs and resources for young people, including a Summer Science Exhibition, grants, mentoring and research fellowships.

The Welcome Trust

The Welcome Trust is a UK-based charity that supports scientific research, education and public engagement, particularly in the areas of health and life sciences. They offer a wide range of educational programs and resources for young people including a Science Education Programme, a Science Writing Prize and an annual science festival.

The Engineering Development Trust

The Engineering Development Trust (EDT) is a UK-based charity that aims to inspire and support young people to pursue careers in engineering and technology. They offer a variety of programs and resources to help students develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in these fields.

Some examples of the educational support they offer include mentoring, scholarships, STEM Ambassadors Program and work experience placements.

Complimentary Subjects for STEM Students

When it comes to picking GCSE, A-Level and Undergraduate subjects, there are a number of subjects that compliment traditional STEM subjects and will support your child’s development and knowledge. Take a look at the following suggested subjects and consider if they will support your child on their journey to a future STEM career:

• English Language – provides students with the ability to read and write effectively, which is essential for understanding technical texts and communicating their own ideas in a clear and concise manner.
• History – provides context for understanding how scientific and technological advancements have shaped the world, and how they have been influenced by historical events and cultural perspectives.
• Art and Design – helps students to develop spatial reasoning skills, which are important in fields such as engineering and architecture.
• Business and Economics – provides students with knowledge of business concepts, which can be applied to the development of technologies and innovations.
• Music – provides opportunities to develop their creativity and problem-solving skills, as composing and improvising music requires the ability to think outside the box and come up with new ideas. As well as developing critical thinking skills.

Which STEM Career Should My Child Pursue?

There are a wide range of STEM careers for your child to choose from, each with its own unique set of skills and requirements. Some of the most popular STEM careers include:

• Computer Science – Computer science professionals are responsible for designing and building computer systems, software, and applications. They may also work on data analysis, cybersecurity, and other related tasks.
• Engineering – Engineers use maths and science principles to design and build products, systems, and structures. There are many different types of engineering careers to choose from, including civil, mechanical, electrical, and aerospace engineering.
• Data Science – Data scientists use statistical and programming skills to analyse and interpret large datasets, often in order to inform business decisions or solve complex problems.
• Biomedical Engineering – Biomedical engineers use engineering principles to design and develop medical equipment, devices, and systems. They may also work on developing new treatments or therapies for diseases and injuries.
• Environmental Science – Environmental scientists study the natural world and work to protect and preserve the environment. They may conduct research, monitor environmental conditions, and develop solutions to environmental problems.

How Can My Child Achieve a STEM Career?

In order to pursue a STEM career, it is typically necessary to earn a university degree in a related field. Many STEM careers require a bachelor’s degree at minimum, although some may require a master’s or doctoral degree. It is also important to gain relevant experience through internships, co-op programmes, or research projects.

One of the key challenges of pursuing a STEM career is the demanding coursework and technical skills required. It is important to be prepared to work hard and stay motivated in order to succeed in these fields.

However, the rewards of a STEM career can be well worth the effort. In addition to the strong earning potential and job security, STEM careers also offer the opportunity to work on exciting and meaningful projects, and to make a positive impact on society. If your child wants to achieve a career in STEM then arranging an online science tutor may give them the edge they need to beat the competition to the best courses and career options.

Why is it a Good Idea to Arrange Tuition in STEM?

STEM tutoring can be a good idea for children for several reasons:

• Improved Academic Performance – children who receive STEM tutoring may experience improvements in their exam grades, test scores, and overall academic performance. This can help them feel more confident and motivated in their studies, and can also set them up for success in sixth form, university and beyond.
• Greater Understanding of STEM Subjects – a tutor can provide personalised instruction and support that helps children understand STEM concepts more fully. This can be especially helpful for children who are struggling in maths or science, or who may be falling behind in their classwork.
• Enhanced Problem-Solving Skills – STEM subjects often involve problem-solving, which can be an important skill for children to develop. Tutoring can help children practice and hone their problem-solving abilities, which can be useful in a wide range of academic and real-world situations.
• Greater Interest in STEM – children who receive STEM tutoring may become more interested in science, technology, engineering, and math, which can be especially important for children who may be considering a STEM career in the future.
• Support for Talented STEM Students – children who are gifted in STEM subjects may benefit from STEM tutoring as a way to challenge themselves and continue to grow and learn. A tutor can provide advanced material and support that helps gifted children reach their full potential.

How to Find the Best Tutor for My Child

If you’re looking for a tutor to help your child with their studies, it’s important to take the time to find the best one for their needs. Start by determining what your child needs from a tutor by considering what subjects they are struggling with, as well as understanding their learning style and any other challenges they may be facing.

Once you know what your child needs, take the time to find a tutor that has the STEM knowledge and experience that is required. It’s a good idea to look for qualified teachers who have experience of the age range of your child. Don’t forget to check out reviews on online tutors and even consider meeting them before you agree to start tuition. This will help you determine whether they are a good fit for your child and whether they are able to effectively support your child’s learning needs.

If you are struggling to find a tutor that can provide what you need, or you don’t know where to look then get in touch with Principal Tutors. All our tutors are qualified teachers in the UK, with extensive knowledge and experience.

Plus, our pay and go system means that you will never pay for more tuition than your child needs! If you are ready to support your child with their dreams of a STEM career, we are here to help – get in touch today and book your child in for targeted support.