Glasgow dad seeks to ignite gamer kids’ passion for coding through interactive sessions
Internationally renowned kids coding franchise, Code Ninjas, has just opened its latest location in Newton Mearns. Kids from the age of 5-14 are now being introduced to things that previous generations could only dream about: how to build robots, program drones and even create their own video games. This studio, based at Kirkhill House in Newton Mearns, is being run by Colin Campbell – an IT professional of over 20 years and local dad-of-two.
“Leaving my job to support my own children’s home learning during the pandemic really inspired me. It helped me see just how switched-on today’s kids are to technology and I realised I could do something positive to have an impact on more children’s lives and help shape their future” said Colin. “I was looking around for something that suited my expertise, which is when I came across Code Ninjas. I saw how successful the format is in the US - the brilliance of its curriculum and how there was no-one in the area doing this to the same quality and level that Code Ninjas could offer. I fell in love with the concept and enquired about launching my own Dojo.”
Code Ninjas is a coding provider which teaches kids key skills in an exciting, collaborative, and confidence-building environment. The sessions are taking place at Kirkhill house, a grand country home which has recently been converted for commercial use.
At Code Ninjas, they do things a little differently: the students are called Ninjas, the teachers are called Code SenseisTM and their studio is the Dojo. Senseis guide Ninjas as they progress through the programme by working towards coloured wristbands - or ‘belts’ - based on the colour system in martial arts. The curriculum is self-paced and involves tasks that encourage the Ninjas to collaborate with their friends. By the end of the programme, Ninjas are able to have developed a game or an app of their own, which their friends and family can download.
The success of the international coding provider is indicated by its growth in the UK. Code Ninjas opened its first UK location in 2019, having launched in Pearland, Texas, in 2016. Three years on and there are now over 40 territories across England, Scotland and Wales, with more than 400 operating in the US and Canada. Each studio, whether in Nashville or Newton Mearns, offers world class curriculums updated throughout the year to remain fresh and engaging for the tech-savvy Ninjas.
Colin told us, “Our focus is that every kid that comes here has a great time whilst simultaneously improving their problem-solving skills and critical thinking. We create a fun and caring environment which encourages our Ninjas to work together and help each other as a way of building up their own and their peers’ confidence. It’s all about having fun - with the added bonus of the Ninjas learning valued skills that align with their passions, but also skills that, if they want, can unlock opportunities for the future.”
Colin has already recruited a team of local rising stars in the tech industry, with students and recent graduates joining with him to deliver the curriculum. Importantly, the Dojo is a parent-free zone - allowing the kids to fully express themselves in a friendly environment with wise and knowledgeable Senseis to help guide them.
One of the Ninja’s parents, Gary, was instantly impressed with the set-up, saying “The staff are very professional and knowledgeable, and the atmosphere they create is really friendly and relaxed.” Lana, local mum of Ninja, Oliver, who started attending Code Ninjas sessions a few weeks ago said, “Oliver absolutely loves coming here, it’s a very well organised and educational course. The Senseis are also wonderfully approachable and helpful - he really enjoys coding fun games so when he comes here, he’s in his element.”
To book a free trial session for your child or to enquire about attending a Grand Opening event, visit https://www.codeninjas.co.uk/newton-mearns-rfw-uk
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