Listen to our Co-CEO Claire being interviewed by Jane Wakefield from UK Tech News, about Tech She Can's expectations from the next government to revamp the education curriculum for technology roles.

Podcast: 'Why fixing gender gap in technology must start in classroom'

<p>Claire also addresses the various factors that impact why girls don’t get into STEM, why a third of women are leaving the sector and the importance of investors being more conscious of who they’re investing in.&nbsp; “We don’t need any more mentoring, women don’t need fixing, we don’t need any more roundtables, benchmarking, toolkits or data. We know what the problems are we know what works: we need funding, leadership and support,” Thorne tells the UKTN Podcast.</p><p>Thorne founded Tech She Can to help address the “nationwide” problem of too few women in technology roles. The aim of the charity is to see women play an equal role in creating and developing tech businesses, products, and services that will ultimately shape the world and make sure that tech works for everyone.</p><p>Listen to the full podcast episode here: <a href="https://www.uktech.news/podcasts">https://www.uktech.news/podcasts</a><br><br></p>

Podcast: 'Why fixing the gender gap in technology must start in the classroom'

Earlier this July, Tech She Can and Open Kids Africa hosted an inspiring LinkedIn Live event titled "Overcoming Global Barriers: Inspiring Children's Future Careers in Technology."

Event Summary: Overcoming Global Barriers – Inspiring Children's Future Careers in Technology

<p>The live session was an opportunity for our audiences to learn from <a href="https://techshecan.org/meet-the-team#becky-patel">Becky Patel</a>, Head of Education at Tech She Can, and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/reginankenchor/">Regina Nkenchor, </a>Founder of Open Kids Africa, as they discussed their experiences of the education system, and the challenges and opportunities in play when it comes to nurturing children's career aspirations in the tech industry on a global scale.&nbsp;</p><p>Through the session, we discovered that whilst rural communities in Nigeria lack basic resources such as electricity, some UK schools, especially in social mobility cold spots, experience a similar level of access to technology like VR headsets and individual pieces of tech equipment.&nbsp;</p><p>We were able to delve into the significant barriers that children worldwide face when aspiring to careers in technology, and despite geographical and cultural differences, the session highlighted many shared obstacles, such as limited access to resources, gender stereotypes, and lack of understanding and buy-in from parents.</p><p>Regina and Becky shared some of their proudest moments through their work at Tech She Can and OpenKids Africa, and it was a brilliant opportunity to celebrate the resources both charities use, such as the <a href="https://techshecan.org/on-demand-lessons">lesson packs</a> and <a href="https://techshecan.org/animated-lessons">Katie and Tex Animations</a>.&nbsp;</p><p>It gives us great pleasure to know that our resources are not only globally relevant, but well received by the children!<br><br><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/reginankenchor/">Regina Nkenchor, </a>who is the Founder of <a href="https://www.openkidsafrica.org/">OpenKids Africa</a> has been working towards a mission of, <em>“Connecting every African child to a digital future through the delivery of free tech lessons in rural schools”.&nbsp;</em></p><p>Open Kids Africa uses a number of Tech She Can resources in their outreach work, such as our Katie and Tex animations, and have even tuned in to watch our <a href="https://techshecan.org/live-assemblies">Live Lessons</a> with school children in Africa this year!&nbsp;</p><p>The event underscored the importance of both organisation’s work in addressing these issues, and our alignment as charities in working towards the same mission.&nbsp;</p><p>To find out more about our work at Tech She Can and Open Kids Africa and ways you can support us please take a look at the links below.&nbsp;</p><p>Tech She Can: <a href="https://techshecan.org/support-our-work">https://techshecan.org/support-our-work</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Open Kids Africa: <a href="https://www.openkidsafrica.org/">https://www.openkidsafrica.org/</a>&nbsp;</p><p><br></p>

We are seeking a motivated summer intern to join our team and assist with the coordination of our Champion base.

We are hiring! Tech She Can Champion Programme Coordinator - Summer Internship

<p><strong>Position:</strong> Summer Intern - Tech She Can Champion Programme Coordinator<br><strong>Duration</strong>: Immediate start for 2 days a week over July, August, ideally September (2/3 months)<br><strong>Location:</strong> Remote<br><strong>Charity:</strong> Tech She Can<br><strong>Paid role:</strong> £13 per hour<br><br>POSITION NOW FILLED<br><br></p><div><strong>About the Role:&nbsp;<br></strong><br></div><div>We’re seeking a motivated summer intern to join our team and assist with the coordination of our Champion base. This role is perfect for anyone looking for a meaningful project over the summer, whether you're a recent graduate, school leaver, transitioning careers, or simply seeking valuable work experience in a Non-profit organisation. As an intern, you will support our Champions (volunteers from our industry partners) who visit schools using our Tech We Can material.&nbsp;<br><br><br></div><div>Your primary responsibilities will include managing our Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system, coordinating communications, and ensuring the smooth operation of our Champion programme, working closely with our Core Team.&nbsp;<br><br></div><div><strong>Key Responsibilities:<br></strong><br></div><ul><li>Using our Customer Relationship Management (CRM) System (Hubspot) to manage Champions data.</li><li>Sending emails and communications via CRM.</li><li>Perform spreadsheet formatting, matching and reporting.</li><li>Conducting entry-level data analysis.</li></ul><div><strong>Ideal Candidate:<br></strong><br></div><ul><li>Organised and detail-oriented.</li><li>Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.</li><li>Proficient in using spreadsheets and data entry.</li><li>Comfortable working independently and as part of a team.</li><li>Enthusiastic about technology and education, and non-profit organisations.&nbsp;</li><li>Ideally - you will have some basic knowledge of CRM system software such as Hubspot, Salesforce or similar platforms. <em>(Not required)</em></li></ul><div><strong>About Tech She Can<br></strong><br></div><div>Our mission at<a href="https://techshecan.org/"> Tech She Can</a> is to ensure children across the UK aspire to pursue, and can access pathways into tech careers. As a charity, we bring together the collective experience and expertise of our member organisations to tackle the talent shortage and lack of diversity in UK technology.<br><br></div><div>In October 2023, we celebrated our second birthday as an independent charity and published our second<a href="https://techshecan.org/our-impact"> Impact Report</a>.&nbsp;<br><br></div><div><strong>Application Process:&nbsp;<br></strong><br></div><div>To apply email your CV and a cover letter stating why you are interested to <a href="mailto:info@techshecan.org">info@techshecan.org</a>&nbsp; by 31 July.&nbsp;<br><br></div><div><br></div>

Tech She Can Launches Bold New Manifesto for Generational Change in Tech Careers
during London Tech Week

Manifesto Download

Press Release Manifesto

<h2><strong>Tech Careers: Opportunity for All</strong></h2><p><br></p><p><strong>LONDON – June 12, 2024 </strong><em>Tech She Can</em>, the tech careers inspiration charity dedicated to ensuring all UK girls aspire to and can access pathways into tech careers, is thrilled to announce the launch of its ambitious new manifesto aimed at creating lasting, generational change. With a vision for women to be equal participants in the creation and development of new technology, business, products, and services that shape our world, Tech She Can is committed to ensuring that technology works for all.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Uniting a unique community for change<br></strong>Tech She Can is proud to partner with a diverse community of over 250 industry organisations spanning 40+ sectors. By bridging education and industry, and representing a multitude of voices, Tech She Can is addressing the<strong> 'inspiration gap'</strong> and '<strong>aspiration gap</strong>' to inspire all children, regardless of their background. To date, Tech She Can's proven educational materials, industry role models, and established reach have impacted over 120,000 children across UK classrooms.</p><p><br></p><h1><strong>A manifesto for generational change</strong></h1><p>So often, the educator’s voice is missing from the debate on tech skills and talent. To meet the urgent need for systemic change in tech education and careers, Tech She Can presents a comprehensive 3-step manifesto:</p><p>1. <strong>Immediate actions</strong>: Change the ratio of women in tech by addressing structural barriers and societal perceptions. For example, establishing a joint DFE-DSIT cross-departmental unit, and launching a national public campaign to challenge perceptions of tech careers and reclaim the tech narrative, with a focus on girls and women.</p><p>2. <strong>Within 3-5 years</strong>: Ensure meaningful, inclusive, and future-ready careers education for all, preparing young people for work and life at every age. This includes investment in early and sustained careers inspiration for parents, children, and teachers, and partnering with industry to co-create and deliver future-ready and industry-relevant experiences.</p><p>3. <strong>Within 5-10 years</strong>: Modernise the STEM curriculum to make it relevant to all, especially girls. This involves a dedicated industry taskforce to review and update the tech curriculum, ensuring technology is embedded across all subjects, and equitable access to Computer Science GCSE / National 5 Computing Science in all UK schools.</p><p><strong>Transforming the future of tech careers<br></strong><em>"Tech She Can's Manifesto is not just a call to action but a blueprint for meaningful change: a 10-year vision to realise UK-wide opportunity for all. Along with our industry partners from over 40 sectors we urge the next UK government to improve technology and careers education so that children today will be inspired to pursue, and be equipped for, the jobs of the future.</em>" - <strong>Says Sheridan Ash MBE &amp; Dr Claire Thorne, Co- Chief Executive Officers at Tech She Can</strong></p><p><strong>Lord Jim Knight - member of House of Lords Education Committee, former Minister - Education and Skills, Chair of Trustees at E-Act Multi Academy Trust </strong>quotes - <br><em>“I am very happy to support the Tech She Can Manifesto and the work Tech She Can does. I firmly believe we need cross sector, cross-government, and cross-party collaboration to achieve real change in our education system. Our schools need support to adapt to a constantly changing world. I’d like to see schools promoting apprenticeships as well as degrees as pathways to work. I encourage you to support Tech She Can’s Manifesto and help make our schools fit for the future.”</em></p><p><br></p><p><strong>About Tech She Can <br></strong>Tech She Can is a young charity with a bold mission to inspire and enable all children to pursue tech careers. So often, the educator’s voice is missing from the debate on tech skills and talent. With support from over 250 industry partners, Tech She Can bridges the gap between education and industry, ensuring that every child in the UK has the opportunity to engage with tech throughout their schooling.</p><p>Join us on June 12th, 2024, as we launch our manifesto and take a decisive step towards a future where tech careers are accessible and inspiring for all.&nbsp;</p><p>For more information and to support our mission, please visit https://www.techshecan.org</p><p><strong>Contact:</strong></p><p>Dr Claire Thorne and Sheridan Ash MBE Co- Chief Executive officers&nbsp;</p><p>Tech She Can &nbsp;</p><p><a href="mailto:claire@techshecan.org">claire@techshecan.org</a> <a href="mailto:sheridan@techshecan.org">sheridan@techshecan.org</a></p><p>---</p><p><strong>Note to editors:</strong></p><p>- Tech She Can is committed to transforming tech education and careers inspiration across the UK.</p><p>- Over 120,000 children have been directly impacted by Tech She Can's programs.</p><p>- The manifesto launch is a London Tech Week Fringe event. It will feature key educator voices, together with industry and public sector leaders.</p><p><strong>#TechSheCanManifesto</strong></p>

Are you looking for engaging ways to integrate the BBC micro:bit into your classroom activities? Here at Tech She Can we have a huge range of educational resources that could easily complement your teaching technology.

Download links

Harnessing Power of micro:bit and Tech She Can: A Guide for Teachers

<div><strong>Unlocking Creativity with micro:bit<br></strong><br></div><div>The BBC micro:bit is a fantastic tool for introducing coding and electronics to students in a hands-on, interactive way. Its versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of educational projects, from simple programming exercises to more complex IoT (Internet of Things) innovations. The micro:bit's built-in sensors and LED lights can spark creativity and problem-solving skills among your students. The beginner micro:bit challenges can be used to complement our impactful Tech We Can assembly resources, where we link your student's hobbies and passions to the world of work and technology careers.<br><br></div><div><strong>Making a Difference in Education<br></strong><br></div><div>By combining the BBC micro:bit and Tech She Can's initiatives, you're not just teaching technology—you're shaping future innovators and changemakers. This integration empowers all students, regardless of gender, to see themselves as capable contributors to the tech world.<br><br></div><div><strong>Challenges for the Classroom:<br></strong><br></div><p><strong>Tech for Helping the Planet<br></strong><br></p><div><strong>1. Watch this assembly:<br>"Tech for Helping the Planet Assembly"<br></strong><a href="https://techshecan.org/previous-assemblies/planet">https://techshecan.org/previous-assemblies/planet<br></a><br></div><div><strong>2. Complete these related micro:bit challenges:<br>Saving Sea Turtles<br></strong><a href="https://microbit.org/projects/make-it-code-it/saving-sea-turtles/">https://microbit.org/projects/make-it-code-it/saving-sea-turtles/<br></a><br></div><div><strong>Animated animals <br></strong><a href="https://microbit.org/projects/make-it-code-it/animated-animals/">https://microbit.org/projects/make-it-code-it/animated-animals/<br></a><br></div><div><br></div><p><strong>Tech for Helping People<br></strong><br></p><div><strong>1. Watch this assembly:<br></strong><br></div><div><strong>"Tech for Helping People Assembly"<br></strong><a href="https://techshecan.org/previous-assemblies/helpingpeople">https://techshecan.org/previous-assemblies/helpingpeople<br></a><br></div><div><strong>2. Complete these related micro:bit challenges:<br>Touch Emotion badge&nbsp; <br></strong><a href="https://microbit.org/projects/make-it-code-it/touch-emotion-badge/">https://microbit.org/projects/make-it-code-it/touch-emotion-badge/<br></a><br></div><div><strong>Calming LEDs<br></strong><a href="https://microbit.org/projects/make-it-code-it/calming-leds/">https://microbit.org/projects/make-it-code-it/calming-leds/<br></a><br></div><div><br></div><p><strong>Tech for Gaming and Esports<br></strong><br></p><div><strong>1. Watch this assembly:<br>"Tech for Gaming and Esports Assembly"<br></strong><a href="https://techshecan.org/previous-assemblies/esports-gaming">https://techshecan.org/previous-assemblies/esports-gaming<br></a><br></div><div><strong>2. Complete these related micro:bit challenges:<br>Rock Paper Scissors Game<br></strong><a href="https://microbit.org/projects/make-it-code-it/rock-paper-scissors/">https://microbit.org/projects/make-it-code-it/rock-paper-scissors/<br></a><br></div><div><strong>Dice<br></strong><a href="https://microbit.org/projects/make-it-code-it/dice/">https://microbit.org/projects/make-it-code-it/dice/<br></a><br></div><div><br></div><p><strong>Tech for Space<br></strong><br></p><div><strong>1. Watch this assembly: <br>"Tech for Space Assembly"<br></strong><a href="https://techshecan.org/previous-assemblies/space">https://techshecan.org/previous-assemblies/space<br></a><br></div><div><strong>2. Complete these related micro:bit challenges:<br>Environment exploration<br></strong><a href="https://microbit.org/projects/make-it-code-it/environment-exploration/">https://microbit.org/projects/make-it-code-it/environment-exploration/<br></a><br></div><div><strong>Shining sunbeams<br></strong><a href="https://microbit.org/projects/make-it-code-it/shining-sunbeams/">https://microbit.org/projects/make-it-code-it/shining-sunbeams/<br></a><br></div><div><br></div><p><strong>Tech for Sport<br></strong><br></p><div><strong>1. Watch this assembly:<br>"Tech for Sport Assembly"<br></strong><a href="https://techshecan.org/previous-assemblies/sport">https://techshecan.org/previous-assemblies/sport<br></a><br></div><div><strong>2. Complete these related micro:bit challenges:<br>Step Counter&nbsp; <br></strong><a href="https://microbit.org/projects/make-it-code-it/step-counter/">https://microbit.org/projects/make-it-code-it/step-counter/<br></a><br></div><div><strong>Beating heart </strong>&nbsp;<br><a href="https://microbit.org/projects/make-it-code-it/beating-heart/">https://microbit.org/projects/make-it-code-it/beating-heart/<br></a><br></div><div>Have fun!<br><br></div>

Harnessing the Power of micro:bit and Tech She Can: A Guide for Teachers

The City of London Corporation has today (29 April) launched a Taskforce to tackle the lack of women in digital roles after Alan Turing Institute data revealed that less than 25% of women work in AI and data science fields in the UK.

City of London Corporation launches Taskforce to tackle lack of women in digital jobs

<p>The City of London Corporation has today (29 April) launched a Taskforce to tackle the lack of women in digital roles after Alan Turing Institute data revealed that less than 25% of women work in AI and data science fields in the UK. Gender equity remains a challenge in these roles with estimates showing that there will be one skilled woman for every 115 tech roles by 2025 (1).</p><p><br>The Women Pivoting to Digital Taskforce, which includes businesses such as IBM, Accenture and Salesforce, brings together business, Government, third sector and industry groups to support women from non-technical backgrounds to pivot to digital roles in AI, data, cyber and IT.</p><p><br>Digital jobs are emerging and advancing rapidly, and as the momentum around AI accelerates, the Taskforce aims to knock down the barriers between women and these crucial roles.</p><p><br>UNESCO data shows that by 2025 there will be 149 million new roles in software, data and AI across all sectors of the economy. And despite the need for vital skills training to fill these roles, only two percent of women are provided with opportunities to upskill at work (2).</p><p><br>This initiative aims to support employers in the financial and professional services as well as technology sector to upskill workers while equipping organisations with the tools to hire women from non-technical backgrounds.</p><p><br>Caroline Haines, Vice Chair of Policy and Resources at the City of London Corporation, who launched the event at Guildhall, said: “I am pleased to launch The Women Pivoting to Digital Taskforce which will encourage women to pivot to digital roles. The Taskforce will seek to give more opportunities and tools to women to close the growing digital skills gap. Achieving gender parity requires collective action from businesses, Government, and third sector organisations to make the digital workforce more diverse and inclusive.”</p><p><br>Sheridan Ash, Founder and Chief Executive at Tech She Can said: “I am delighted to be co-Chair of this important Taskforce. There is an urgent need to boost growth and productivity in the UK by addressing our skills gap in technology. Increasing the skills and diversity of the technology workforce is fundamental to the UK becoming more competitive and innovative. The UK’s technology skills gap could be solved today if we had the same number of women as men working in technology jobs and careers. I very much look forward to working with everyone in this initiative, and to tackling the skills gap by increasing diversity in technology careers.”</p><p><br>Flavilla Fongang, founder of Black Rise and Global Tech Advocates Black Women in Tech said: “As we launch this strategic initiative, I am filled with optimism about the powerful collaboration that awaits us. This is more than a start, it's a pledge to harness diverse talents and ideas that will redefine the technological landscape. I am excited to be part of a team as experienced and passionate as the Strategy Steering Board, we are destined to drive innovation and inclusivity at every step.”</p><p><br>Adam Baldwin, General Counsel, Girls in Tech said: “I am delighted to join the Women Pivoting to Digital Taskforce. The launch of this Taskforce by the City of London Corporation represents a significant step in creating new opportunities for our talented UK workforce, supporting women in their pivot into the growing number of digital roles. I cannot wait to see what we can achieve with such great support from the city’s businesses, government and third sector.”</p><p><br>Laura Faulkner, Director of Business Services, Nationwide, said: “For the mutual benefit of our customers, colleagues and wider society, Nationwide is committed to addressing the underrepresentation in Financial Services of women in technology. As part of the City of London Corporation's Woman Pivoting to Digital Taskforce, we will focus on equipping women from non-technical backgrounds with the essential skills to build digital careers. Through cross-industry collaboration, our goal is to build a robust pipeline of female talent, surfacing and supporting opportunity for more women to move into digital roles."</p><p><br>Karen Blake, co-Chief Executive of Tech Talent Charter, said: “It is an honour to join the Women Pivoting to Digital Strategy steering board. With women consistently underrepresented in specialist digital roles across sectors, our mission is clear: to leverage their diverse skills for innovation. As we embark on this two-year initiative, we're committed to bridging the gender gap and empowering women to thrive in the digital age.”<br><br><strong><br>Notes to editors</strong></p><p>The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally-successful UK. <a href="http://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/">www.cityoflondon.gov.uk</a></p><p>1 <a href="https://codefirstgirls.com/di-for-tech-leaders/">Diversity &amp; Inclusion for Teach Leaders | Code First Girls</a></p><p>2 <a href="https://codefirstgirls.com/di-for-tech-leaders/">Diversity &amp; Inclusion for Teach Leaders | Code First Girls</a></p>