This half day interactive workshop explored current social science research about the negative impact of gender stereotypes on sixth form girls and their career choices. It was aimed at the sixth form girls of the Marine Academy Plymouth (MAP).
The organisers invited a local celebrity guest speaker, recent MAP alumni and other local young people who are interesting role models, offering a challenge to the often limiting career choices for girls.
MAP (formerly Tamarside Community College) is a mixed all through school located in Kings Tamerton. It is sponsored by the University, Cornwall College and Plymouth City Council. Full sixth form provision only started in 2011 and there is a wide range of academic and vocational opportunities on offer.
Research shows that girls are significantly less confident about their career prospects than boys, and have very different attitudes to what they seek in a career – attitudes that significantly affect the types of jobs they secure. Sixth form boys are much more confident about their job prospects, while girls are anxious about their ability to land a good job.
Both genders already perceive the job world as one where men are paid better and face better prospects.
