Are girls really worse at maths?

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Bababam Are girls really worse at Maths? Thanks for asking.
According to the UK's Department for Education, girls still make up fewer students choosing A-level Maths and Physics, and even fewer go on to study Engineering or Computer Science at University. Yet these subjects often lead to some of the best-paid jobs.
So does this mean girls just aren't as good at Maths? Not really. In fact, studies show girls perform just as well as boys in primary school Maths and sometimes better. But by the time they reach secondary school, the gap often widens. Recent research from UCL using Tim's data found boys in England are outperforming girls in certain year groups, not because of ability, but because of differences in confidence and belonging. Girls are more likely to say that they can't do Maths even when their results prove otherwise. So what's behind that shift? It's not biology. There's no genetic reason why girls would be worse at Maths. Instead, the evidence points to stereotypes and social expectations.
The long-running Aspires project from King's College London found that from as early as age 10, girls start to see science and technology careers as not for them. Part of that comes from how Maths and Science are represented in textbooks, media and even in subtle messaging from teachers and parents. Boys are more often shown as naturally logical, while girls are encouraged towards subjects seen as more creative or caring. As a result, many girls underestimate their own ability, even when they perform at the same level as boys. And those early perceptions can shape later choices. Fewer girls taking A-level Maths means fewer entering Engineering or Tech, reinforcing the same cycle of gender imbalance.
So what can be done to change that? Schools and charities across the UK are stepping up. Initiatives like Girls into Maths and STEM Ambassadors aim to boost confidence, train teachers to recognise bias, and make sure that every pupil, whatever their gender, sees Maths as a subject where they belong. Because the numbers are clear, when girls feel confident in Maths, they perform just as well as boys. The challenge isn't ability, it's perception. There you have it.
Now you know if girls are really worse at Maths. In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions and help you understand the true meaning behind the trends, concepts and acronyms that are making headlines. Listen along, and you really will know for sure.

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