How ‘I Belong’ encourages girls into computer science

Newly appointed assistant head and STEM professional development leader Thomas Mullins discusses why more schools should embrace the National Centre for Computing Education’s I Belong programme…

About Me

Thomas Mullins: Assistant head at Plymouth Grove Primary School

Our school: Plymouth Grove Primary School is attended by around 455 pupils, many of whom are from a lower socio-economic background.

How did you find out about the I Belong programme?

I’ve always had a passion for developing pupils’ interest for STEM subjects, especially for children from a lower socio-economic background. As a school where 57 per cent of pupils are on free school meals and female pupils are typically not enthused by STEM subjects, I wanted to show all students, and girls especially, that computing and technology is for everyone.

By engaging with the local Computing Hub, I saw the impact the I Belong programme was having in the arena of secondary education and decided to introduce it to my pupils with a collaborative project where girls from Year 4 to Year 8 have worked to build a ‘city of the future’. This has presented STEM and computing as practical and enjoyable subjects.

Why do you believe it’s important for more girls to study computing at primary?

At our school, I lead a hybrid-learning platform and can see how girls are using the technology in creative ways. There is a big disengagement between a digital-focused environment and the subject of computing due to the perception of it being stricter and less creative and hence less appealing to girls.

While boys might be more outspoken, girls can come up with some incredible ideas when given a chance to. That’s why it is important to create an environment that is inclusive, collaborative, and where any child can thrive, no matter their gender or identity.

“I wanted to show all students, and girls especially, that computing and technology is for everyone.”

How has the I Belong programme positively impacted your school?

The student event we’ve had was a big success. Female STEM Ambassadors were incredibly relatable and inspiring for our pupils.

For a Year 4 girl, her interest in STEM and computing got invigorated, and her confidence improved greatly. Year 6 students were able to see how they can progress in their studies, while Year 8s had a chance to gain leadership experience.

The evident shift in attitudes has also interested other pupils across the school, and more girls want to be a part of future activities.

What’s next for your school?

The CPD that is part of the I Belong programme has given me the tools and approaches to bring out more diverse voices in the classroom. As an assistant head coming into my new role, I am looking forward to inspiring my colleagues and having a whole-school approach to the I Belong programme.

Together we can create an inclusive and thriving environment for all our pupils, and prepare them for the exciting technological future.