Port’s Coderdojo club coding for the future

A Portarlington-based group of volunteers set the example for other communities around Laois who want to help children sharpen their computer skils.

The CoderDojo group in Portarlington Met last week with Charlie Flanagan TD. He visited the Port CoderDojo group which runs classes on Saturday mornings.

“I was very impressed at the professionalism and teamwork shown by the CoderDojo group in Portarlington. There are over 100 children attending a not for profit coding club that is teaching children how to computer program.

“In the digital age this is a vital tool that shows young people how to code, develop websites, apps, programs, games and much more. This is all carried out in a supervised but relaxed environment.”

Dep Flanagan said the benefits are there for all to see and the emphasis is placed on children learning invaluable tools in a fun environment with their friends.

The CoderDojo group in Portarlington have recently secure new premises in the ETBI building on Bracklone Street and they meet every Saturday morning for 2 hours.

“The demand for CoderDojo in Laois is increasing and the mentors, parents and tutors In Portarlington have set a high standard and are an excellent example of how to make the CoderDojo club a success,” he said.

EU Code Week takes place from November 25-30. The TD said the week is excellent starting point for potential mentors and volunteers in Laois who are interested in setting up their own CoderDojo club. Dep Flanagan said he would be happy to help people who want to start their own CoderDojo club.