This project is an after school programming club to teach software development skills to inner city boys who otherwise would not have access to the equipment, the experts and the shared space to learn with friends. We aim to train up to 50 boys over the next two terms, building an evidence base to access additional funding to continue the project. Donating will enable the boys to build new skills and confidence, raising their aspiration and career ambitions. It costs $15 a day for each child.
In 2006 more than 60% of all school exclusions in London were of black boys and evidence shows the high probability of poor life chances, after such events. For the last 7 years SYLA has provided out of school education support, mentoring, positive leadership activities and in-school support for over 200 boys aged between 8-16. In partnership with local schools and parents the 'wrap-around' service raises aspirations and creates positive change in the lives of the marginalised and vulnerable.
The project will enable the boys understanding of game engines, develop their own software apps, updating website content and gaining a head start to academic and professional future routes. Coding is included in the new school curriculum and we want to equip our young leaders to have a good foundation, be ambassadors, pass on the skills. "Learning computer programming changed me by strengthening my problem solving skills, logic and reasoning and giving me misery when the code did not work" SYLA
Digital literacy is now a fundamental skill like reading and writing and technical skills are key to progression in the 21st century. The ICT skills taught will both support traditional school learning and instigate new forms of learning, as we have already seen in our initial pilot. Engaging and enriching the young leaders in this way will improve their attitude to learning and self confidence, boosting their school experience and raising their ability to achieve and maximise opportunities.
