SCQF ACCREDITED Data programme for neurodivergent women.

Why this programme was needed

Women make up 21% of UK tech teams

• 1 in 3 women are planning to leave their tech roles

• 21% of data centres have zero women in tech

• Only 3% of tech staff are neurodivergent

• Neurodivergence in UK population is estimated at: 15–20%

• Just 25% feel neurodiversity is celebrated within their organisations

• Progress tracking for neurodivergent and disabled staff is limited

  Diversity in UK Tech - UK Government (June 2025)

Partnership Working

The programme was delivered in partnership with Code Division, futureCoders, Bianca Peel Consultancy, and the Data Lab. We were lucky to have “neuro-spicy” individuals co-creating the programme. Frank Duffy (Code Division), Karen Scott (futureCoders), Bianca Peel (NomadAlba/BPCE), and Nuria Fraille-Diaz (Data Lab) led the programme with support from neurodiversity, mentoring and employability experts. Together we designed a flexible, accessible online programme with tailored support, clear pathways, and inclusive tools for neurodiverse learners.

Streamlined Layout & Accessible Fonts

Clear, legible fonts to reduce cognitive load, essential for learners with dyslexia or visual processing challenges.

• Simple, uncluttered layout avoids overwhelming neurodiverse learners, making navigation intuitive.

• Font and color customization for individual preferences helps learners adjust for maximum comfort.

• Structured course flow ensures learners can easily follow the content, reducing anxiety about next steps.

• Accessible design principles applied to enhance overall usability, including high contrast and readable sizes.

Inclusive Moodle Features & Plugins

We added in additional features to our programme.

• Text-to-Speech plugins (e.g., ReadSpeaker) to support auditory learning.

• Gamification elements to engage and motivate through rewards, aiding retention and focus.

• Interactive video tools promote active learning and prevent passive watching.

• Moodle Accessibility Checker ensures content meets accessibility standards, creating a consistent experience.

• Customizable themes and fonts allow learners to tailor visual content for better readability.

Clear Pathways for Progress

In the design we created:

• Structured learning pathways with defined milestones guide learners step-by-step.

• Regular check-ins to help ensure learners stayed on track and receive timely feedback.

• Visual progress indicators (progress bars) to help learners monitor advancement.

• Personalising goals provide clear expectations for each learner’s journey.

• Self-paced flexibility combined with clear deadlines to reduce stress and enhances focus.

• Peer collaboration opportunities help learners stay engaged and motivated

Empowering Real-World Learning

To ensure learners experienced real world learning:

• Hands-on Experience: Provided practical skills with Excel, Power BI, Tableau, SQL, and Python for real-world data tasks.

• Human Skills Training: Boosted confidence through training in communication, creative thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving.

• Real-World Data Projects: Offered authentic experience by tackling challenges solvable through data-driven solutions.

• Recruitment Consultant Meetings: Provided professional growth tips to prepare for data roles and enhance career readiness.

• Post-Program Support: Offered networking, job preparation, and some learners are now on our Data Gals Mentorship Programme.

Inclusive Support for Neurodiverse Learners

Personalized learning plans to cater to individual strengths and needs.

• Catch-up classes and one-on-one mentoring to offer tailored assistance.

• Progress monitoring through regular input into e-portfolio to ensure consistent improvement.

• 6 Month pre-paid SIM cards to ensure accessibility learners through partnership with Good Things Foundation.

• Flexible scheduling allowing learners to balance programme commitments with personal commitments.

“I personally gained a lot from the course, with both tech and human skills. I’m extremely grateful to the tutors who’s guidance helped to build my self-confidence and who provided a learning space where I felt I could thrive. Learning in a neurodivergent centred way was a game-changer for me. It’s courses like this that are creating meaningful change by empowering neurodivergent women to enter into a field that needs diverse voices more than ever.” - Katherine