In an attempt to prepare them for the digital world that we live in, coding lessons were introduced to schools back in 2014. Prior to this shift, IT lessons at school would teach children the basics of how to use a computer, like word processor, spreadsheets and other functionality which have since moved on to the cloud and been adapted. Now they are taught not only on how to use computers, but understand how they work, code, and make them work for you. Lessons start from as young as 7 years old, when they are taught the basics of programming. Keep reading to learn more about these curriculum changes and the benefits of coding for children. 

This post contains information that we have gathered from an independent school in London.

The Wider World

One benefit of knowing how to code is that children are able to understand the world around them and how it works. Almost everything that we come into contact with requires code.

Employability

Automation is changing the way things are done and that includes the nature of the jobs that children will be going into. In fact, it is estimated that as many as 75% of jobs will be affected and require advanced digital skills. There is quite evidently a skills gap here in the UK. Lessons will help address the issue by making children equipped to fill future vacancies.

Problem Solving

Aside from the actual skill itself there’s an array of soft skills that children can learn, like problem solving for example. They will need it when applying the concepts they’ve learned to produce their own coding creations. Things don’t always go to plan either which means that they will need to think creatively to put solutions in place. 

We hope this post gave you some insight and that you enjoyed reading!

Disclosure: This is a collaborative post.