GCSE boost in sciences expected

The rise in take-up of traditional science subjects seen in A levels is set to be repeated at the GCSE level this week.

Experts predict that more teenagers have opted for physics, chemistry and biology – reversing an earlier trend towards taking a combined science GCSE.

The reverse follows a campaign – largely backed by independent schools – to switch to separate sciences as a better preparation for taking the subjects at A level.

Figures last year showed a 158.1 per cent rise in the take-up of physics to 120,500 and a 160.1 per cent rise to 122,000 in chemistry over the past decade. Biology rose 165.9 per cent to 129,500.

The rise is set to continue when 600,000 GCSE students get their examination results on Thursday.