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Excitement, curiosity and creativity filled the computing labs of �Թ���’s Huxley Building on Thursday 11 June 2026, as nearly 60 primary schoolgirls took part in a one-day hackathon designed to inspire interest in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM).

Hello World Hack is a one-day hackathon designed specifically for girls in Years 3 to 5 (ages 7–10). The event offers an inspiring introduction to maths and computing, providing positive STEM role models while helping to build confidence and interest in engineering.

By giving them access to engaging, hands-on experiences in STEM and Computing, we can inspire curiosity, build confidence, and encourage them to imagine themselves as the scientists and engineers of the future.”  Dr Jackie Bell, Principal Teaching Fellow Department of Computing, �Թ���

This year, �Թ���’s Hello World Hack brought together 59 girls aged 7–10 from four local primary schools. Working in small teams, pupils dove into hands-on challenges including programming robots and designing simple apps, guided by �Թ��� scientists and engineers who identify as women. Through early exposure to coding and problem-solving in a fun, collaborative environment, the event aims to challenge stereotypes and encourage more girls to consider future careers in STEM. While the event is exclusively for girls, accompanying adults can be of any gender, with 13 adults attending to support and take part in the day’s activities.

By the end of the day, every participating school walked away with prizes, including STEM activity books, BBC micro:bits and even robot unicorns - a playful reward that matched the energy of the event. But it was the girls’ enthusiasm and sense of achievement that stood out most. One school governor and parent described the journey home as “non-stop excitement”, recalling comments such as: “Can we come back here every day?”, “This is more fun than I imagined!” and “Wow! This is so good!” Another pupil eagerly asked, “Can you please tell my mum I want a micro:bit for my birthday?”, while others were keen to continue learning at home. 

Teachers also praised the impact of the experience. “Thank you so much for the opportunity to inspire the girls from our school to get into STEM,” one teacher said. “They couldn't stop talking about the challenges and all they'd achieved. The volunteers were so kind, understanding and helpful.” Another added: “It was so good to get girls competing and learning new things. It was such a great event.” 

at �Թ��� and the event’s coordinator, highlighted the wider importance of the initiative. “It’s so important that institutions like �Թ��� host events like this, creating opportunities for girls and students from underrepresented backgrounds to see themselves reflected in our facilitators and volunteers,” she said. “By giving them access to engaging, hands-on experiences in STEM and Computing, we can inspire curiosity, build confidence, and encourage them to imagine themselves as the scientists and engineers of the future.” 

Now firmly established as a highlight in the school calendar, Hello World Hack continues to grow in popularity, with both staff and students eagerly anticipating it each year. Building on the success of this year’s event, organisers are inviting schools to register their interest for next year, offering even more young girls the opportunity to discover that coding, engineering and innovation can be as fun as they are inspiring.

To express your interest in next year’s event,