‘I Belong’ (Free Girls Into Computer Science Programme)
In 2023, only one in five GCSE Computer Science and only 15% of all A Level Computer Science entries, were from female students in England. ‘I Belong’ seeks to challenge this by targeting Key Stage 3 students and supporters. Around 592 schools have already signed-up to have their school supported and recognised in encouraging more girls into computing to make representation in the sector more equal going forward. Below are quotes from just a few of the people already involved.
“Choosing to study computer science can be really empowering for any student when they realise it can enrich and empower a future in business, politics, research, healthcare or management. Why shouldn’t girls have those opportunities too?”
“Jobs in cybersecurity, data science and artificial intelligence are far too important to leave to any individual gender, race or religion. We need the best talent to enjoy creative skills in computing at every stage so that any student can picture themselves thriving in a computing career: using their tech skills to make the world a better place.”
“The I Belong programme helps give focus to our efforts to give students a platform to thrive, regardless of any limitations they perceive to be in the way due to gender, race, religion or special educational need.”
Schools can sign-up for free and teachers can join the movement by becoming a champion here I Belong: encouraging girls into computer science programme.
Free resources include the posters you see below and support in the form of free webinars to guide and support teachers to make the most of the opportunity for girls as well as events to help inspire more into digital careers.
Please do share this opportunity with your school networks. If you would like to collaborate on an event or add ‘I Belong’ content to any upcoming events you have, please do get in touch.
Being part of the Stoke on Trent and Staffordshire Careers Hub has been pivotal to the development of careers provision in our school. The Hub have shared good practice across their members resulting in a stronger focus on good quality provision. The annual event enabled the hub to share their vision of School Improvement Through The Lens of Careers and looking beyond the Benchmarks. It was a fantastic opportunity to share different models of school improvement and strategies to further develop careers provision to enhance the future opportunities of our young people.
Mrs A Spencer, John Taylor High SchoolIt it superb to be able to speak with local schools, colleges, and businesses in Stoke and Staffs and show how important the partnerships are to bring the skills of the future. Educating those who educate the ones shaping the aspirations of young people is essential for the industry to grow and be more sustainable.”
Alison Tucker, St Modwen
