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

Aimed at 9 to 11-year-olds, the Code 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 even develop websites.

As activities are group based, they will also have the chance to boost their self-esteem and develop people skills – improving their future employability. 

The pioneering Code Clubs were made possible through the Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC) which trained over 140 librarians in basic coding skills. SLIC worked in partnership with the UK-wide charity Code Club to deliver the digital training during the first few months of 2017.  

Gillian Daly, Head of Policy and Projects, SLIC said: “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.”

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

The fund provides grant support to organisations delivering extracurricular computing and digital activities to young people aged 16 and under across Scotland. It has been developed and funded by the Digital Scotland Business Excellence Partnership whose partners include Scottish Government, Skills Development Scotland and tech trade body ScotlandIS.

Phil Worms, Computing and Schools Project lead at ScotlandIS, said: “The Digital Xtra Fund aims to make a real and lasting impact in the provision of extracurricular computing science-related activities for young people aged 16 years and under across the whole of Scotland. We have a range of amazing activities and projects being delivered across Scotland to encourage young people to participate and engage in computing activities, thus developing skills which will be vital for them to thrive in their future careers."

Lorna Gibson, Scotland Coordinator, Code Club said: “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.”

To find out more information about the Code Clubs please contact your local library or visit SLIC’s website www.scottishlibraries.org.