
Seeing and believing: diversity, inclusion and access in computing education
In January 2025, we hosted a roundtable at the National STEM Learning Centre to discuss how to ensure equitable access to digital and computing education for all young people and enhance diversity in the technology workforce. The event, convened by the National Centre for Computing Education (NCCE), brought together representatives from industry, government, and education sectors to explore this topic. There were several key areas of discussion throughout the day.
All participants highlighted the power of relatable and diverse role models in inspiring young people and the need for more exposure to people in STEM jobs and organisations. “Seeing and believing” rang true and was a cornerstone of the argument for the need to increase opportunities for students to engage with STEM Ambassadors.
The need for networks was also raised – and digital hubs proposed – to provide essential support and opportunities that might otherwise be inaccessible and offer young people the chance to meet like-minded peers and support each other as well as for companies to get involved with students throughout their educational journeys.
The discussion then steered towards the need to support schools with appropriate funding and resources and the need for a comprehensive and inclusive approach to the curriculum in computing education. It was emphasised that digital skills should be embedded throughout the curriculum at every stage and in every subject to make learning more intuitive.
Finally, the roundtable discussion highlighted the crucial role parents play in supporting their children's computing education, however pointing out the potential need to upskills parents and subsequent need for industry’s support to achieve this. The significant issue of access to technology in areas of socio-economical depravation was also a brought up and addressed. This is a timely discussion as the new Digital Inclusion Action Plan has been presented to the Parliament by the Secretary of State for Department for Science, Innovation and Technology
Following the roundtable, STEM Learning produced a paper with a clear set of recommendations for educators, industry and government.
STEM Learning, through the National Centre for Computing Education, is dedicated to working closely with our partners to bring these recommendations to fruition. By continuing our collaboration with industry, government, and educators, we aim to ensure that every young person has the opportunity to engage with digital and computing education.