CoderDojo is a global phenomenon orientated around running free not-for-profit computer coding clubs for young people. At the sessions, 12-17 year olds learn how to code, develop websites, mobile phone apps, programmes, games and more in a fun and social environment. There are classes from Tokyo to New York to Melbourne which are completely run by volunteers.
Craig Steele, CoderDojo Scotland Project Manager at Glasgow Science Centre said: “We are very excited to bring CoderDojo to young people in Ayrshire. The dojos are a fun and exciting way to learn more about coding and computer programming. It doesn’t matter what your level of coding is- you may be a beginner wanting to learn the basics or you may have some experience and be looking to hone your skills!
Young people at our dojos have coded their own games, apps and websites so we are eager to see what creativity and skill we can find in Ayrshire.”
CoderDojo sessions in Scotland started at Glasgow Science Centre two years ago and the project has grown from strength to strength. There are now 14 clubs across Scotland from Moray, Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Stirling. Demand in Glasgow and Edinburgh has been so high, there are now several clubs across both cities. In this year alone, over 600 12-17 years olds have engaged in over 1200 hours of digital making from around Scotland.
Glasgow Science Centre, and its Chief Executive Stephen Breslin, has been instrumental in propelling CoderDojo Scotland forward and the educational charity continues to support Craig, now a Glasgow Science Centre employee, with his expansion.
Glasgow Science Centre Chief Executive, Stephen Breslin, said: “The IT industry is growing rapidly, at a much faster rate than any other sector but the uptake of studying computing science at school and university is on the decline. CoderDojo is an active learning opportunity where young people can equip themselves with knowledge and skills to pursue careers in the sector. The dojos are also fun and social, where people can come together and learn together.
Glasgow Science Centre’s mission is to promote science, technology, engineering and maths in a fun, thought provoking and inspiring way. We want to encourage young people to consider studying these subjects and recognise the rewarding opportunities available in the STEM industry.
CoderDojo Scotland is a great example of STEM public engagement and we are proud to manage the project at the Centre. We will continue to work alongside Craig in bringing this new exciting avenue of learning to young people across Scotland. Who knows, we may find the next Mark Zuckerberg right here in Kilwinning?”
For more information on how to join a CoderDojo class, please visit http://coderdojoscotland.com
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