Scottish libraries launch Code Clubs for kids

Code Club member Freya at Kirkcaldy Galleries, Library Museum and Art Gallery - Image credit: Ian Jacobs

Libraries across Scotland have launched Code Clubs to inspire the country’s next generation of coding experts.

Aimed at 9-11-year-olds, the clubs give young people the opportunity to learn a wide variety of digital skills in a fun environment.

Public libraries up and down the country will host regular Code Clubs, where children can learn how to create digital games, build animations and develop websites.

The events have been facilitated by the Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC),

SLIC was awarded £47,000 from Scotland’s Digital Xtra Fund to set up Code Clubs in public library services across Scotland.  

It trained over 140 librarians basic coding skills, working in partnership with the UK-wide charity Code Club to deliver the digital training during the first few months of 2017.

The aim is to establish a club in every community in Scotland, with the benefits going beyond just digital skills.

Gillian Daly, Head of Policy and Projects at SLIC, said: “Digital technology touches every aspect of our lives and digital literacy is vital to tackle inequality and social exclusion and promote self-improvement. 

“Code Clubs are a fun and engaging way for young people to learn new skills.

“Most young people these days know how to work a smartphone better than any adult, but we still need to equip them with the right skills and knowledge for their future as technology and computing specialisms become embedded into our careers.”

Lorna Gibson, Scotland Coordinator, Code Club, added: “The benefits of coding are far broader than just developing important digital skills.

“At a Code Club children are problem solving, collaborating, persevering and creating, all whilst having fun designing games and animations. 

“We want to see a Code Club in every community, so that all children can have the opportunity to make and share their ideas using technology.”

The Digital Xtra fund was launched in May 2016 to provide grant support to organisations delivering extracurricular computing and digital activities to young people aged 16 and under across Scotland.

It has been funded by the Digital Scotland Business Excellence Partnership, which includes the Scottish Government, Skills Development Scotland, Scottish Enterprise, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Scottish Funding Council, Education Scotland, ScotlandIS and representatives of the digital industries.

Twenty-two projects throughout Scotland have had a share of £400,000 worth of funding so far.