In 2007, there were 23,369 domestic1 Year 11 to 13 Māori candidates2 studying within the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) of which 11,222 (48%) participated in a science subject. Of those, 4,617 (41%) attained 14 or more credits in a science subject3. Increasing the number of Māori health professionals is vital to providing appropriate care to Māori individuals, their whānau and all New Zealanders. Studying science subjects at school is necessary for Māori candidates wanting to become health professionals such as doctors, nurses, midwives, dentists and physiotherapists. Useful subjects to study at school include chemistry, physics and biology for entry into clinical tertiary training programmes such as: doctors; dentists; nurses and midwives. Studying science related subjects also opens doors to a range of sport professions as well as other science related professions. Typically candidates study science in Year 11 and then either biology, chemistry or physics in Years 12 and 13. Māori candidates’ participation and attainment is increasing in these subjects. Monitoring the participation and attainment of Year 11 to 13 Māori candidates studying science subjects is useful to determine the number of Māori candidates better placing themselves for future careers as Māori health professionals. Information in this section To view data about student participation and attainment in science subjects, select from the following categories. Or you can download all the information below in a single spreadheet: Student participation and attainment in science subjects (Excel, 433 KB)