Funding boost to help pupils get to grips with computer coding

MORE pupils are set to learn about computer coding thanks to a new £1.3m funding boost from the Welsh Government, it has been revealed.

Education Secretary Kirsty Williams says she wants all pupils to have the opportunity to get involved in coding as the importance of digital skills continues to grow.

Computer code is a set of rules or instructions that makes it possible to create computer software, apps and websites. It is a means by which learners can transition from being users to becoming “authors” of technology.

The Welsh Government aims to expand “code clubs” in every part of Wales. Approximately 300 clubs currently exist across the country.

There are currently around 1.5 million jobs in the digital sector in the UK, 400,000 of which involve coding. It is estimated that there will be 100,000 new coding jobs by 2020.

Kirsty Williams said: “Code is part of almost everyone’s lives. When we check out social media, access an app or computer we are using systems created through code.

“Through this £1.3m of new investment we are aiming to expand the number code clubs in every area of Wales for learners aged 3-16 so that they can develop their skills which will be vital part of thriving in our increasingly digital economy.

“We will work with teachers, the education consortia and others to help us crack the code for all our pupils.”