CodePlus (2020 – current)

CodePlus is nationwide Computer Science outreach programme that delivers 20-houra of project-based coding workshops to secondary-school girls. Students explore programming and digital creativity through hands-on, team-based projects, typically over four days. They gain practical experience in areas such as software development, AI and machine learning, robotics, and front-end web development. Beyond workshops, CodePlus provides career talks, webinars, and visits to leading technology companies, giving students the opportunity to meet female role models working in the sector. UL-based Transition Year groups have recently visited Huawei, Google, Dell, and Qualcomm, offering valuable insight into real-world tech careers and helping students make informed choices about future study and career pathways.

We are doing CodePlus because girls remain significantly under-represented in Computer Science and technology-related courses and careers across Ireland. Despite the growing importance of digital skills, many young women never get the opportunity, encouragement, or confidence to explore computing during their school years. This limits not only their individual career options but also the diversity and innovative potential of Ireland’s future STEM workforce.

We are working with University of Galway, Trinity College Dublin along with industry partners including Huawei, Google and Fidelity.  

CodePlus is assessed using a combination of quantitative data, qualitative feedback, and longitudinal indicators to ensure that the programme delivers meaningful and measurable outcomes. These methods (see resources tab for information on Codeplus impact metrics) help us understand both the immediate effects on participants and the longer-term influence on attitudes toward Computer Science. We have been undertaking a longitudinal study on the impact Codeplus is having. Anecdotal Evidence and student Testimonials frequently report increased confidence in ability to code, and surprise at how creative and collaborative computing can be.