Isle Of Wight Girls Encouraged Into Engineering With New Girlguiding Badge

Girls on the Isle of Wight are being encouraged to explore careers in engineering through a new initiative launched by Girlguiding South West England in partnership with the Institution of Civil Engineers.

The new civil engineering badge is now available to Guides and Rangers across the Island, offering hands-on activities designed to bring the subject to life and inspire future career paths.

Participants can take part in a range of practical challenges — from building bridges using chocolate bars to creating towers on jelly to understand ground conditions, as well as tackling simulated emergencies by designing water systems and shelters.

To earn the badge, members must complete at least two of the activities.

Local group leaders can run the sessions themselves, or link up with real-life engineers through the programme, giving young people the chance to learn directly from industry professionals.

The scheme has already proved popular across the UK, with around 15,000 badges awarded and strong feedback from participants.

Surveys show interest in civil engineering careers rose significantly after taking part, with many describing the activities as fun, inspiring and eye-opening.

Regional director Katherine Etheridge said the initiative helps young people see how engineering shapes everyday life, from the places we live to the way we travel.

Chief Commissioner Racheal Tattum added that the partnership aims to empower girls by showing them the impact they can have as engineers, innovators and leaders.

Girlguiding units on the Isle of Wight wanting to get involved can find out more via the Girlguiding South West England website.