This week I highlight publication of a new report on the gender gap in maths and science performance at Y9, as well as updates to the DfE’s guidance on sustainability leadership and climate action plans and on meeting digital and technology standards.

Gender gap in maths and science performance
According to the latest report on England’s performance in the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study, boys’ performance in maths and science has risen significantly above that of girls. The report also found that pupils eligible for free school meals had a lower average score than those not eligible.

In maths at Year 9, boys’ average score rose from 516 to 538, while the score for girls dropped from 514 to 512. This is the first time since records began in 2003 that a statistically significant gap has been seen at Year 9 and was the largest for any of the countries participating in 2023. The findings have raised concerns over why a large gender gap has opened up, especially given the existing initiatives aimed at addressing this issue in maths and science.

Updated guidance on sustainability leadership and climate action plans
The DfE has added a short section on ‘Developing and storing your climate action plans’ to its guidance on Sustainability leadership and climate action plans in education, reminding schools that holistic climate action plans should cover the issues of decarbonisation, adaptation and resilience, improving the environment and biodiversity, and climate education and green careers.

Updated meeting digital and technology standards in schools guidance
The DfE recently updated its guidance to support schools to use the right digital infrastructure and technology and can meet the latest wireless network standards and associated technical requirements.