Applications have opened to join a new programme that gets schoolchildren into computer coding, especially those from deprived backgrounds.
The Pathways to Coding programme developed by east London’s Queen Mary University has just been awarded £40,000 by the Sutton Trust, a think-tank which aims to improve social mobility through education.
The four-year project starting this month swith two cohorts of students is designed to support disadvantaged Year 12 and Year 13 pupils, but with priority given to those who are or have been in care, looked after or accommodated.
“This opens up coding to those from disadvantaged backgrounds,” Queen Mary’s Danielle Russo explained. “Hopefully it inspires them to take coding even further.”
The programme run by the university’s School of Electronic Engineering & Computer Science at the Mile End campus includes sessions focussed on both the academic side and on career possibilities. It also has talks from industry figures and academics work as well as opportunities for work-experience.
The two cohorts will be supported through years 12 and 13 with activities such as e-mentoring, coding clubs, campus coding days, talks and a “hackathon” residential summer school.
Applications to join Queen Mary’s Pathways to Coding programme close on September 30.
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