Encouraging girls into computer science CO440 / A24
Summary
There is a gender imbalance in computing that needs to be addressed, with girls significantly under-represented in GCSE and A-level Computer Science:
- In 2023, only 21% of GCSE Computer Science entries were girls.At A-level, this dropped to just 15%.
- Similarly, only 21% of students applying for computing-related degrees were female.
- Yet, girls outperformed boys at GCSE, with 40.6% achieving a 7/A grade compared to 32.3% of boys.
To support more girls into Computer Science, strategies must be implemented both inside and outside the classroom. This course provides an overview of the challenges in computing, with a specific focus on gender balance, covering current research and existing barriers. Participants will explore curriculum design and practical in-class strategies to enhance engagement and increase uptake for all students.
This course is part of the NCCE’s I Belong: Encouraging Girls into Computer Science programme. For more information, visit the website.
Who is it for?
Teachers and curriculum leaders in secondary computing.
What topics are covered?
Encouraging Girls into GCSE Computer Science – explore the wider issue of the gender gap in GCSE uptake between girls and boys. Join discussions on key reasons behind this disparity, including a lack of role models, unconscious bias, and a non-inclusive curriculum. Consider classroom and broader strategies to help close the gap, and develop effective KS3 interventions to boost uptake in your own school.
How will you learn?
This online, self-paced course can be completed flexibly. You can join and start this course at any time after the advertised date, and keep access for a year after booking.
How long is this course?
This course is approximately 2 hours of self directed learning.
Who is the course leader?
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This is a self-paced Online Course
The course leader will be introduced in the course.
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Outcomes
By the end of this course, you will:
- explore the issues and national trends affecting recruitment of girls into GCSE computer science
- evaluate a range of strategies to make computer science more inclusive
- plan effective intervention to increase recruitment at KS4
Sessions
| Date | Time | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Encouraging girls into computer science | 01 April 2025 | 00:00-00:00 |
Actions
Cost
| English Maintained | Activity feeFree | Subsidy available*£0.00 |
|---|---|---|
| Other | Activity feeFree | Subsidy available*£0.00 |
| Priority school | Activity feeFree | Subsidy available*£0.00 |
| Priority school repeat teacher | Activity feeFree | Subsidy available*£0.00 |
| Trainee Teacher | Activity feeFree | |
This subsidy can contribute towards the costs associated with supply cover Find out more. |
Outside the UK? Fee information
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The subsidy value may be higher for your school or college.
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