The community at Royal High School Bath has come together to celebrate International Day of Women and Girls in Science, with a powerful assembly focused on representation, confidence and ambition.
Led by Head of Science Sinead Duignan, the assembly explored why visibility matters in science and how stereotypes can limit girls’ aspirations from an early age.
Students examined global statistics showing women hold just 22% of STEM jobs in G20 countries and make up around 33% of researchers worldwide.
An interactive activity invited pupils to name as many scientists as they could, first male and then female. The contrast highlighted how few women are widely recognised in science, reinforcing the importance of positive role models.
Ms Duignan also shared insights from Eileen Pollack’s book The Only Woman in the Room, which explores women’s experiences studying science at university.
Pollack’s research found many women reported a lack of belonging, limited role models and being underestimated, summed up by the observation, ‘When girls don’t see people like themselves in science, they stop believing it’s for them.’
Royal High Bath is well known for its strong STEM provision and commitment to supporting girls into scientific pathways.
In 2025, 60% of leavers progressed to STEM-based degrees at leading universities including Exeter, Manchester, UCL, Birmingham, Durham, Liverpool, Imperial College London, the University of Sydney and the University of Hong Kong.
Within the current Year 12 cohort, 70% of students are studying at least one science, with 25% taking Physics at A-Level.
Year 13 student Cat reflected on her experience, saying, “Science at RHB is special because it’s so girl-centred. I think it’s enjoyable because the doors are so open to us and we’re so encouraged to pursue our STEM education.”
Innovative initiatives such as the school’s new Flying Club, launched at the start of the academic year, further demonstrate Royal High’s commitment to inspiring ambition and narrowing the gender gap in STEM careers.
From September 2026, Years 5 and 6 will relocate to the Senior School site, allowing younger pupils to benefit earlier from specialist science facilities and teaching staff.
Head Heidi-Jayne Boyes said, “International Day of Women and Girls in Science is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women who have shaped our world, while reminding students there should be no limits on their aspirations.”
She added, “At Royal High, we are proud to inspire confidence, curiosity and ambition, and to encourage every girl to see herself as a future scientist, innovator or leader.”
Sinead Duignan said, “It’s vital our students see diverse and inspiring role models in science. Every day at RHB, we show them that science is a space where they belong and where they can make a real difference.”
