Edge Hill University is launching a vital campaign to shatter the tech glass ceiling, helping young women across the region visualize a bright future for themselves in the fast-paced world of technology.
Innovative Project to Break Down Barriers
This innovative project is designed to tear down traditional barriers by building confidence, teaching cutting-edge skills, and fostering a true sense of belonging in the digital sector. To bring this vision to life, the university's Department of Computer Science has officially teamed up with the British Computer Society (BCS). Together, they are delivering the prestigious 'Levelling Up: Computer Science' (LUCS) programme - a powerhouse national initiative specifically founded by Dr Tony Hill and backed by external funding to dramatically boost female participation in STEM subjects.
Programme Welcomes Year 12 Pupils
Led by Dr Sarah McHale, the programme welcomed Year 12 pupils from local schools, colleges, and sixth forms to campus for an innovative five-day experience packed with hands-on learning and collaborative tech projects recently. By giving local students direct access to advanced university resources and expert mentorship, this transformative partnership is actively shaping the next generation of tech leaders. The project marks a major milestone in making the local tech landscape more inclusive, proving that the future of computer science is diverse.
Dr Sarah McHale's Perspective
Dr Sarah McHale, senior lecturer in Computer Science, said: "Having witnessed first-hand the underrepresentation of females in the computer science environment over many years, I relished the opportunity to lead the Levelling Up Computer Science programme. Although I run the Tech Women's Club within the Computer Science department, initiatives like this take my passion further, since we were able to reach out to the wider younger generation in local schools, colleges and sixth forms. Levelling Up has been vital in inspiring the next female generation of Computer Scientists: the key was using female undergraduate students to tutor computer skills such as Cyber Security and AI. This allowed us to see the positive impact of mentorship, not only in the transfer of skills but also in sharing their student life experience. Seeing how the tutors lifted up the youngsters and how they in turn related to the female student tutors as role models was truly wonderful."
Interactive Seminars and Career Pathways
Across the week, the pupils explored key areas of computer science through interactive seminars, designed by the BCS. For example, sessions included 'Cyber Security and Digital Forensics', and 'Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning'. Delivered in small groups, Edge Hill undergraduate students supported the sessions, creating an approachable and encouraging learning environment. Participants also attended sessions on university applications, degree choices, and computer science career pathways. This helped pupils understand not just what to study, but where the industry could take them.
Student Feedback
Grace Arbon Black, a Year 12 student from Ormskirk School, said: "I really enjoyed all the sessions. Data science really surprised me, as I hadn't realised how it combines statistics, probability and coding. I learned how large amounts of data can be presented as something more human-friendly, like graphs and models that solve complex problems. I also really enjoyed the digital forensics session. Learning how cybersecurity specialists identify suspicious activity and trace it back helped me better understand digital footprints and what a career in cybersecurity might involve."
Everlyn So, a pupil from Cardinal Newman College, said: "I loved the fact that Levelling Up was taught by the undergraduate tutors. It was brilliant and truly informative."
Impact on Participants
Overall, the students' feedback shows that these topics helped young female students understand different areas within computer science while building confidence. Crucially, undergraduate students played a central role in creating this supportive environment, acting as mentors and role models throughout the week. By learning alongside current students, participants could see what studying Computer Science at Edge Hill is really like. They also experienced first-hand the support available if they choose to take that next step.
Undergraduate Tutor Perspective
Ruby Houghton, a current BSc (Hons) computing student who supported the programme, said: "During my time on the Levelling Up project, I tutored students in data science and artificial intelligence while also delivering a campus tour. Teaching the students helped me develop my confidence and gain a deeper understanding of the subject myself. It was incredibly rewarding to see their enthusiasm grow throughout the sessions, and by the end of the programme many of them felt empowered to continue exploring their interest in computer science. Being part of the project allowed me to support and encourage young women considering careers in technology, while also developing my own communication and leadership skills."
Future Plans
Creating an inclusive and encouraging environment remains central to LUCS. This programme helps address the gender gap in Computer Science and shows young women they belong in the field. Looking ahead, Edge Hill plans to run the programme again over the next two years. The University will continue to support students who may not typically consider computer science. The initiative helps them build confidence, develop in-demand skills, and pursue careers in tech.
