If it’s a money thing and the luxury of choice, why is the uptake of science and maths significantly higher in girls single sex schools? Which are generally private so it can’t be a “luxury of choice” thing. Figures are closer to those of developing countries, so that would argue against your theory.
i was the opposite, like I said earlier. I liked stem subjects, but even 30 years ago it was incredibly difficult in a co-ed school to be “different” and stand up against the herd and join what were effectively all boys classes. Away from my friends, usually sat alone, with teachers who were puzzled at best or openly said girls couldn’t do science at worst.
my husband likes art, history, and has very little interest in science. My kids are the same, although they are good at maths.
bear in mind computer science was originally a “female” subject, until men realised the potential and women were blocked as men took over their jobs.
i’ve even heard it from primary school teachers. Boys are just naturally better at maths, girls just work harder to keep up.
it isn’t a “women naturally prefer the arts”, it’s women are socialised into thinking they aren’t good at STEM and often sway against it because that’s what their friends are doing.
i remember the push into STEM as well. It wasn’t about taking subjects you weren’t interested in, it was about making girls realise it was an option, it shouldn’t be a boys only domain, and women are perfectly able to have a career in STEM if they wish.