GIRLS from Nunnery Wood High School have visited a conference aimed at promoting science, technology and maths subjects.

The year 10 and 11 pupils from went to the annual STEMettes Monster Confidence conference in Birmingham.

The conference works to inspire, encourage and support young women into STEM careers (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths).

STEMettes recognise the lack of diversity in STEM roles, with only 21 per cent of those working in STEM-related roles across the UK being women; only 7 per cent of engineers are women and 17 per cent of those working in technology are women.

The girls were able to get interview practice, hear inspirational talks by keynote speakers, meet people from the industry of their interest and attend career workshops.

Year 11 student Hollie Milton was picked out of more than 300 girls as the winner of one of the challenges.

Her prize was an all-expenses paid meal with inspirational STEM women from the secret service, GCHQ.

The challenge involved posting work on Instagram and seeing which piece attracted the most ‘likes.’ Hollie watched a video of the mascot dancing. She then learnt the dance and posted this to Instagram. 

Hollie said: “I was very surprised to win and I am very much looking forward to my prize.”

Molly Phillips, head girl, said: “Today has taught me that all you need is confidence in yourself and your abilities and it can get you anywhere.” 

Alisha Williams said: “I found the day very inspirational, the best part of the day was the mentoring and mock interviews, they were really helpful in my understanding my options in different STEM careers”.

Megan Grainger said: “I gained more confidence throughout the day and we got tips on how to appear confident, if it at times you don’t always feel it."

The conference took place on Tuesday, November 6.

Paige New said: “I thoroughly enjoyed today and all the activities.

What I most enjoyed was learning about the different areas of STEM and understanding the multiple pathways towards getting into a STEM career. I feel my confidence has been boosted thanks to today and I look forward to continuing my research into STEM careers.”