A new initiative aimed at encouraging interest in IT among girls has been launched in Pembrokeshire. The CC4G club was launched at Ysgol Gelli Aur (Golden Grove) in Pembroke on Wednesday, May 17.

The 50-strong online club is the first in Pembrokeshire and one of only 10 in Wales. Its launch follows concern about the low and declining numbers of young women entering the IT workforce.

If successful it is hoped to launch similar clubs at other schools in the county.

"Much has been written about boys and their interest in computers but it appears to be of less interest to young girls," said Clr. Islwyn Howells, cabinet member for children and young people. "If women are to play a full role in the IT workforce of the future then their interest has to be stimulated at an early age.

"These clubs are designed to show that computers can be fun as well as a pathway to future success." Alastair Birch, out of school hours learning co- ordinator for Pembrokeshire County Council said the CC4G club was an online only club aimed at girls at Key Stage 2/3 (10 to 14-year-olds).

"As well as containing elements of Key Stage 2 and 3 ICT curricula it will also include popular interests such as music, fashion and dance designed to appeal to young girls," he said.

Club members will also receive a special CC4G bag, folder, pen sticks and CD to store their work on. The club will be run by teachers and learning support assistants aided by local sixth formers, who have been trained in e skills. It is backed by Careers Wales and Texaco.