A parent has raised concerns about the routes available for young people hoping to pursue engineering.
After their child was unsuccessful in securing a place on the Engineering School Links Programme, the parent discovered that an alternative entry pathway has been withdrawn.
The parent told Manx.News they felt the wider issue was being overlooked in public discussion.
They said their child has been passionate about engineering “for as long as I can remember” and was eager to apply for the programme. The child sat the aptitude test but did not meet the threshold for a Level 2 place.
Not Challenging Assessment
The parent emphasised that they are not challenging the assessment process or asking for standards to be lowered. Instead, questioned what happens to students who fall just short.
Historically, a Level 1 Engineering pathway existed for students who were not yet ready for Level 2. That route has now been removed.
“We constantly hear about skills shortages and the need to encourage young people into engineering and technical careers — yet one of the pathways into engineering has been taken away.”
The parent worries that a single assessment at age 14 risks becoming a “make or break moment” for students who may develop at different speeds.
“A child who isn’t ready for Level 2 at 14 could be thriving by 16 or 18. One assessment shouldn’t make a young person feel a career they’ve dreamed about is slipping out of reach.”
What About The Others?
The parent said they have since been told that 17 Ballakermeen students sat the assessment this year, with five securing places. Their concern is not with those who succeeded, but with the twelve who did not.
“What message are we sending to young people who have a genuine interest in engineering but don’t meet the threshold at this stage? What opportunities now exist for them?”
While they acknowledges that post‑GCSE options remain available, they believes the removal of the Level 1 route has “unintentionally closed doors” at a time when the island is encouraging more young people into STEM and technical professions.
“Ultimately, this is not about one student. It is about ensuring that all young people on the Isle of Man have fair and accessible routes into careers that are vital to our Island’s future.”
Manx.News has contacted the DESC and UCM for comment.
