Fairfield High School (FHS) is proud to be awarded National Centre for Computing Education’s ‘I Belong’ certificate in recognition of its efforts to improve gender balance in Computer Science. This achievement celebrates the school’s innovative initiatives, including the introduction of the Code Divas Club, participation in girls-only competitions and related trips, and a broader shift in perceptions within the school community, all aimed at inspiring and encouraging girls to develop a passion for the subject.

Traditionally, the number of students choosing GCSE Computer Science has been predominantly male, but since the focus on improving gender balance, there has been an increase in the number of girls selecting the subject. Fairfield’s efforts to create a more welcoming environment for girls has clearly made an impact. So much so, that Ms Said, Director of Science and Computing, received a heartfelt card stating: “Thanks, Miss, for making me feel comfortable in a class of boys.”

Showing videos to students in lessons questioning why girls aren’t taking Computer Science as an option, and therefore generating a conversation around the subject, has been one successful approach.

The lunch time club which Fairfield introduced – Code Divas for girls and non-binary students – has rocketed in popularity, highlighting not only the demand but also the positive impact of the encouragement and supportive environment created for them.

Comments from the students include:

“It helps me by solidifying me future career as a robotics engineer”

“It’s great for meeting like-minded peers who are interested in coding and technology”

“We play fun games and I enjoy it very much”

In addition, Fairfield has put much focus on introducing new and exciting opportunities for girls, such as the nationwide CyberFirst Girls Competition, and more closer to home a cyber related trip to University of West of England (UWE).

Ayat Said, Director of Science and Computing comments: “We are delighted to receive this certificate, which is a testament to our hard work to improve the gender balance of this fast paced and important subject. The shift is almost tangible, with girls excited to talk about coding and Computer Science, largely due to the many extra-curricular opportunities we are offering, in addition to the moving of the barrier and fear felt by many. Ultimately, the perception and stereotyping are evolving, laying the groundwork for a significant cultural shift.”