SHAPE subjects teach us to understand more profoundly the world around us and the people in it, through observation, analysis, translation and interpretation.
They help us to be curious, creative and empathetic – and to assess what’s right and what’s wrong, what will work and what won’t, and what really matters in life.
They help us express ourselves, our knowledge and our ideas in different ways, from analysis to art, prose to poetry, statistics to sound and data to drama.
SHAPE subjects teach us to analyse, interpret, create, communicate and collaborate with rigour, clarity and energy – crucial skills for today. And together with STEM subjects, they help us make innovation work harder for the benefit of everyone. At the same time, they bring colour, texture, opinion and perspective to our everyday.
In short, SHAPE subjects give progress a purpose and light up human life. And there’s never been a more important time for them than now.
Why now?
Academic and business leaders believe the future lies in recognising and capturing the value of SHAPE disciplines themselves, as well as how they work together with STEM to build a better functioning future.
The extraordinary times we’re all currently living through show us just how crucial SHAPE subjects are in keeping life running, care going, communities together, the economy working, the environment sustainable and people’s spirits lifted.
How can you get involved?
Talk about it In conversation, speeches, op eds and your own comms
Spell it out We need as many people as possible to know what it stands for
Share it Use our assets and logo alongside your branding; join in shared moments