Today’s physics news: Gove plans baccalaureate-style shake up of A-levels and science for girls (aka “Science”)

Here is the physics news for Wednesday 17 October 2012.

Michael Gove plans baccalaureate-style shake-up of A-levels

The education secretary, Michael Gove, is to shake up the A-level system as he moves to introduce the principles of the international baccalaureate (IB) to schools in England. Anyone studying arts subjects, such as English and history, would be expected to choose a “contrasting” subject in the sciences or maths. Those studying the sciences would be expected to take a “contrasting” arts subject. The changes are designed to answer universities’ complaints that too many students have a narrow outlook and often lack basic literacy skills.

The Guardian

Science for girls (aka “Science”)

In honour of Ada Lovelace day, Tania Browne provides a guest post, detailing her own on-again, off-again love affair with science, and how the role of women in mainstream sciences has changed over the years.

The Guardian

Seeking inspiration? Don’t forget the woman!

In this article, Athene Donald says we must do a better job of of celebrating female scientists like Ada Lovelace, both past and present, in order to provide inspiration and role models for those who are just setting out on a scientific path.

The Guardian