EY’s Head of Marketing and Business Development, Margo Blondel, introduced the app to girls in Years 9 and 10 during a launch seminar last week.
Women are underrepresented in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) university courses and occupations. The EY app was developed by global EY teams in collaboration with SkillsVR, an immersive learning organisation.
The app is a gamified mobile platform aimed at girls aged 13-18 and is free to download. It features engaging and educational content from well-known institutions, such as NASA, Stanford, UNESCO, and World Economic Forum, all framed for younger users.
Ms Blondel explained: “EY designed the app to provide equal access and opportunities for women in STEM education and careers. The app aims to empower girls to explore and embrace the world of STEM. It’s fantastic to be able to provide this out-of-school learning resource in the Channel Islands to ignite local girls’ passion for STEM subjects and have a better understanding of the career opportunities available to them.”
Naomi Weysom, acting Head of Science at St. Sampson’s High, added: “We were delighted to welcome EY to launch the STEM ap with our students. We always appreciate the links with local businesses and the opportunity to inspire students for future careers.”
Students can choose from over 450 activities of engaging, straightforward, and educational content. To receive points to earn rewards the girls are required to watch videos, read articles, interview community members, answer questions, and conduct experiments.
Nearly 90 girls in the Channel Islands have registered to use the app. Last year the app was launched at Jersey College for Girls and subject matter teachers at Ladies’ College have also been promoting the use of the app.
EY is continuing to speak to other local schools about how the app can support their students’ learning.