Hot on the heels of International Women's Day, on Tuesday 10th March, Miss Joynes (Head of Year) and Mr Doyle (PHSG Careers Lead) accompanied 15 of our Year 8 students during an inspiring 'Women in STEM' event hosted by Babcock at the historic Devonport Dockyard.  Designed to encourage young women to explore future careers in engineering, the day offered a rare blend of hands‑on experiences, expert guidance, and behind‑the‑scenes access to the largest naval base in Western Europe, HMNB Devonport.

Led by a dynamic team of young female engineers from Babcock’s Graduate Training Scheme, the event showcased a wide range of pathways into engineering.  The ambassadors shared their personal journeys, highlighting the diverse routes, backgrounds, and opportunities available within the sector.  Their enthusiasm and expertise set the tone for a day filled with curiosity and confidence‑building.

Babcock, which operates the Devonport Royal Dockyard, has supported the Royal Navy since 1691.  The site features 15 dry docks, 25 tidal berths, and is the UK’s sole facility for refitting nuclear‑powered submarines.  Students were given a unique vantage point to see the dry docks undergoing renovation - both from a tower viewpoint and from the water during a guided boat trip.

A highlight of the day came as students had the opportunity to take the helm of S D Padstow, a 18.3m passenger-carrying catamaran.  This hands‑on experience of steering the vessel out into Plymouth Sound offered a memorable glimpse into maritime operations and the responsibilities of naval engineering.

Working in small groups alongside students from Devonport High School for Girls and Notre Dame School, PHSG students demonstrated impressive teamwork, assertiveness, and problem‑solving skills as they explored the possibilities open to young women in STEM.  The collaborative activities encouraged them to reflect on their strengths and explore how these attributes could shape their future careers.  It was a day filled with discovery, confidence‑building, and a deeper understanding of the vital role engineering plays in shaping the world.

The event was a brilliant opportunity for students to experience first-hand a working engineering environment.  The students were fantastic and a real credit to the school!

- Mr Doyle, PHSG Careers Lead