This morning we celebrated the International Day of Women and Girls in Science - a day early due to half term. We were delighted to welcome Kate Orchard who provided a fascinating talk on Energy and AI. Kate spoke to our youngest future female scientists from 1st and 2nd Form and the young female scientists in our 6th Form who are already on the path to a potential STEM career.

Having spent nearly 20 years working in the energy industry, Kate studied Maths and Spanish at University before completing an MSc in Operational Research. She then spent a large portion of her early career at BP in technology and commercial roles. It was during this time there that she started getting interested in energy transition. For the last 10 years she has worked for a range of organisations that are helping to deliver the UK’s net zero ambitions including biofuels, offshore wind, demand response and green hydrogen; and she recently took on a role working in Artificial Intelligence helping energy clients use machine-learning to make better decisions. 

Following this talk, The Oratory School Captain Audrey Hucker also engaged our junior girls with her experiences studying sciences at A Level (Biology and Psychology).

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science was implemented by UNESCO and UN Women to recognise that further engagement of women in STEM will be critical to helping deliver solutions to some of humanities biggest problems. By celebrating and recognising the achievements of women in the sciences, we hope to energise new talent and inspire the next generation to consider a rewarding career in STEM disciplines.