Enable 50 South London boys to learn programming

Few expressions can match the priceless sense of achievement when after several trials, a child gets something right. That’s the regular nature of coding though, September’s new recruits to coding club discovered, persevering through a first module of Python which demands very specific commands for the programme’s approval.

In the foregoing, our newbies Mario and Abideen are experiencing the emotions that their peers across the table did when they first began coding all those months ago. Now coders in their own right, Tola, Amari, and Timothy know the great experience of creating graphics from text; using Python to calculate their ages in the year 3000; and impressively engineering the variables for them to schmooze – or slate – their friends with a compliment generator. Quite deservedly, this term the trio has earned the right to serve as mentors to their less experienced peers.

Coming full cycle since its inception, SYLA’s coding club has this term emerged Southside’s most diverse club in both ages, and academic ability. From our most academic learners, who see the complicated nuanced commands as a worthy challenge; to our learners with specific learning needs such as English as a Second Language, who through their efforts demonstrate code is a language they can all be fluent in; this is a truly inclusive learning experience for all.

The rate of progress is a healthy one for all, and the Young Leaders – even the newest members  – are to take their skills to the international stage next month as all take part in the global ‘Hour of Code’ event. 

Our new volunteer, Cynthia, will be there to help them with all her energy and enthusiasm. We also have started the recruitment process of a Computer Science Teacher. The number of Young Coders is growing, and they are learning so fast that they now need a professional team to create a curriculum and plan weekly sessions of engaging activities. 

Without the kind donations of our supporters, we couldn't have gone that far! We are really grateful to all the gerenous people who are donating to this project. You can help in many ways: 

- Share our GlobalGiving page on Social Media and raise awareness about the project; 

- Make a one-time donation (Giving Tuesday is coming soon!) or become one of our monthly supporters;

- Participate to a Charity Event and fundraise for SYLA's Young Coders! 

Thank you again for your generosity. You are helping young boys to go from #8togreat!

Links:

• An Hour of Code with Code.org