New Walbrook study highlights barriers for young women in STEM

A new study from the Walbrook Institute London, titled Young women on STEM education, addresses the ongoing question of why comparatively few young women pursue science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) despite broad interest in these areas. The study surveyed 1,000 female students aged 16–19 across the United Kingdom. While 70% of respondents indicated a personal interest in STEM subjects, the findings highlight several significant barriers limiting further engagement.

The report identifies the following five primary factors:

1. Perceived High Effort Required: 61% of respondents believe that training or studying in a STEM field requires a significant amount of effort.
2. Feeling Overchallenged by Topics: 50% reported feeling overchallenged by topics within STEM subjects.
3. High Financial Cost and Workload: 43% stated that studying STEM is too expensive, particularly because the high workload would prevent them from taking on a side job.
4. Subjects Considered Too Difficult: 42% felt that the subjects themselves are too difficult for them.
5. Negative Perceptions from Others: 38% cited the belief that other people do not think they are capable of completing such studies.

In addition, the survey found high levels of ambition among the respondents: 90% plan to attend university, 85% consider career success a priority, 84% wish to support and be present for their families, and 81% seek financial security.

The report concludes that, although interest in STEM remains strong, these perceived barriers—ranging from workload and financial concerns to issues of confidence and external perceptions—continue to limit participation. The authors recommend targeted interventions to address these challenges in order to increase engagement and retention of young women in STEM fields.

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The full study can be found here