The Tech Partnership, a network of employers, has announced its TechFuture Girls computer clubs will now be available free to all schools.
TechFuture Girls, formerly known as CC4G, is an established resource for after school or lunchtime clubs, aimed at girls aged 10 - 14. Since its launch in 2005, more than 150,000 girls have benefited from its mix of activities, games and projects, all designed to build girls’ skills and confidence in technology.
The materials are developed in close collaboration with employers, and teach universally applicable skills like coding, cyber security, data management and video editing, but are themed around girls’ interests, like music, sport or fashion. TechFuture Girls follows the latest changes in the computing curriculum, and now reflects the introduction of coding at schools.
"Substantial sponsorship" from employers has now enabled the Tech Partnership to waive the licence fee for all schools. Platinum sponsor HP has taken the lead in the initiative, with additional support from gold sponsors BT, National Grid and Oracle. The backing means that more than 20,000 schools can now access the programme without charge.
Jacqui Ferguson, senior vice resident for the UK and Ireland at HP Enterprise Services, said: “By investing in TechFuture Girls we’re helping to create a diverse, inclusive environment by engaging girls at the very age when they start to disengage from the subject of technology."
She said HP staff will also have the opportunity to volunteer at local TechFuture Girls programmes, where they will support teachers in delivering resources and serve as role models for the girls.