At a recent lunchtime talk hosted by Apps for Good, one of the Spectris Foundation’s long-term charity partners, educators and students gathered to explore a critical question: Why does breaking down barriers for women in tech begin in education? The session featured two teachers and two students who shared their experiences and reflections on how inclusive, hands-on tech education can empower young women to pursue careers in STEM.
Empowerment Through Real-World Learning
Students praised Apps for Good for its emphasis on problem-solving and soft skills development, including communication, collaboration, and confidence. By engaging with industry experts and receiving professional feedback, students are exposed to real-world challenges and learn to design tech solutions with social impact. Freya and Anais, two student participants, showcased their app that uses AI to reward litter-picking and community care—an inspiring example of tech for good.
Changing the Narrative: Insights from the Lovelace Report
Natalie, CEO of Apps for Good, drew on findings from the 2025 Lovelace Report to spark discussion. The report reveals that the UK tech sector loses £2–£3.5 billion annually due to the departure of women from tech roles, driven by limited career progression, lack of recognition, and absence of role models. With only 20% of the tech workforce being women, the report calls for urgent systemic change to retain and advance female talent.
Natalie asked students how we can encourage more girls to study computing and tech subjects. Their answers were clear and compelling:
- Role Models Matter: Visibility of women in tech is essential. For years, male role models dominated the narrative. Now, showcasing diverse female leaders can inspire change.
- Broadening the Definition of Tech: Tech isn’t just coding—it includes design, user experience, and community impact.
- Workshops and Industry Exposure: External engagement helps students envision real career paths.
- Curriculum Reform: Educational programmes must actively support girls in tech and challenge outdated stereotypes.
Spectris Foundation: Investing in Inclusive Innovation
The Spectris Foundation is proud to partner with Apps for Good to launch and expand Apps for Social Action (ASA)—a solution-focused tech course designed for young people facing adversity, disadvantage, or who are part of minority groups. ASA equips students with the skills to tackle pressing societal issues through digital innovation, empowering them to positively influence the world around them.
In addition to supporting ASA, the Spectris Foundation has awarded a further £30,000 grant to help Apps for Good develop their teacher training platform—bringing their total contribution to £210,000. This investment reflects a shared commitment to equity, innovation, and the transformative power of education.
Sources: 2025 Lovelace Report: https://wearetechwomen.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/2025-Lovelace-Report.pdf