Teaching children the skills they need for a digital age

A PROGRAMME to teach children the skills they wlll need in an ever-more digitalised society is being introduced at three libraries in Warrington.
Libraries operator LiveWire is launching the Code Club programme at the Lymm, Westbrook and Padgate libraries from Thursday, January 11.
Coding is a big part of society today, with the Code Club initiative now having over 6,000 bases in the UK, helping 86,000 children each year learn Coding.
LiveWire chiefs say they are “delighted” the free coding classes are starting in the borough.
The Code Club teaches children aged between 9-13 the skills required to create animations, websites and games.
They will be a necessity in many children’s futures.
The programme is also based around promoting the values of working and learning together, inspiring discovery and invention through play and in the transformational power of programming.
Christine Everett, one of the LiveWire team overseeing the Code Club project, said: “Coding is a massive part of our future and our children’s future, so we are delighted to bring this service to our libraries in Lymm, Westbrook and Padgate.
“The Code Club has become really popular nationwide as it is recognised as a big part of young people’s education and we are thrilled to be able to bring this service to the people of Warrington.
“The response for this program has been unbelievable and classes are filling up quickly so we urge you to book in advance by calling the libraries ahead.”
Strategic library manager Wendy Molyneux added: “We are excited to be introducing coding clubs at our libraries. They are a fantastic way for children to increase their knowledge, explore their creativity and have fun through informal learning activities.
“Libraries provide the perfect environment for them to develop their digital literacy in this way – equipping them with the vital skills and knowledge they need now and into the future.”
The Code Club classes begin at 4pm on Thursday January 11 at Lymm Library. Westbrook will begin at 3.30pm on Monday January 15 with Padgate starting the following day at 3.30pm. All classes last for an hour and are free of charge. Advanced booking is recommended.
Information on the Code Club can be found at https://www.codeclub.org.uk