You Won't Believe What This Former Teacher Did to Revolutionize Tech—And Why It Could Change Your Life!

A former teacher from Stourbridge has made waves in the tech world by receiving a prestigious accolade. Rebecca Franks, co-founder of Flip Computing, was awarded the TechWomen100 Award at a ceremony held in London on November 20, 2023. This award, organized by WeAreTechWomen in collaboration with KPMG, recognizes the contributions of influential women within the technology sector.

Before stepping into the tech arena, Ms. Franks dedicated over 15 years to educating students in computing at various local schools after training as a teacher at Birmingham Newman University. In 2023, she took a significant leap by co-founding Flip Computing, a company focused on creating digital tools and learning resources targeted at young people.

Flip Computing has already made notable partnerships with organizations such as the Micro:bit Educational Foundation, STEM Learning, Multiverse, and Intel Skills for Innovation. The company’s flagship product, Flock XR, is a groundbreaking free, browser-based 3D creation tool. It enables young individuals to develop interactive experiences, games, and simulations through visual coding, all without the need for installations, logins, or advertisements. This ensures accessibility even on low-cost devices, making it a revolutionary option for many learners.

Ms. Franks expressed her gratitude and excitement about the recognition, stating, “It is an incredible honour. More importantly, I hope it shines a light on what is possible when teachers, technologists and young people create together.” Her perspective highlights the collaborative spirit that underpins Flip Computing's mission to democratize access to high-quality creative technology tools.

The development of Flock XR involved significant input from students in Dudley schools, who acted as creative partners in the design process. “Dudley students have been brilliant creative partners. They help us understand what feels intuitive, what sparks imagination, and what makes computing lessons genuinely exciting,” Ms. Franks remarked. This feedback mechanism not only enhances the product’s effectiveness but also empowers students by giving them a voice in their learning tools.

Ms. Franks also noted the growing investment in creative technology within the West Midlands region. She emphasized the importance of equipping local youth with the right tools to build confidence and ambition in emerging sectors: “For local young people to thrive in these emerging sectors, we must give them early access to tools that build confidence and spark ambition. Flock XR is designed to open those doors, especially for students who might not otherwise see a future for themselves in digital creativity.”

The TechWomen100 Award represents a significant milestone in Ms. Franks' ongoing mission to make technology more inclusive and engaging for young learners. The implications of her work extend beyond her immediate community; as educational tools evolve, they have the potential to prepare the next generation for a digital economy increasingly reliant on creativity and technical skills.

In an age where technology and education intersect more than ever, Ms. Franks’ journey is a testament to the power of innovation in the classroom and the impact of women leading in tech. Her recognition serves not only as validation of her efforts but also as a beacon for aspiring educators and entrepreneurs alike.