Long-term friends join forces to launch martial arts inspired coding studio for kids
To the delight of video game loving kids, brand-new coding studio, Code Ninjas, is set to transform children’s love for technology into an exciting learning adventure in High Wycombe. Later this month, Code Ninjas will open to the public with its proprietary CREATE curriculum for kids aged 7-14. Through hands-on learning, children are taught how to code by building robots and creating their own games that friends and family can play at home.
Run by two best friends, Robin Theakston and Charlie Gunn, Code Ninjas provides a facility for kids to learn exciting new skills in a fun and inspiring environment. Based within the main Buckinghamshire New University campus, the new studio – opening to the public on 15th February – is a parent-free zone and a hub for gamers and budding coders.
“Between us, we have five children – I have two boys, aged seven and ten and a daughter who is 11,” said Charlie. “Like all kids their age, they love anything to do with gaming, drones and robots. I’ve spent most of my career working in finance which, like most sectors over the course of the last decade, is underpinned by the value of technology. But the digital revolution hasn’t just impacted the corporate world – it’s intrinsic to all our daily lives. It’s clear to me that our kids’ lives will be hugely enriched by understanding how coding works. The future is exciting but our children need to be ready for it.”
“For us, a real motivator for launching this business together is our need to bring something different to children living locally. There are so many after-school clubs and weekend camps out there for children that have a passion for sport or the arts but nothing that encourages a love of gaming. Coding is a great way to bring children together with their friends, encouraging them to collaborate to create their own games. But the difference we hope to bring to these children is to encourage them to feel confident in their own abilities and passions. As a dad-of-two, it’s something I feel particularly passionate about,” explained Robin.
As you can imagine, Code Ninjas like to do things a little differently. Students are called Ninjas, the teachers are called Code Senseis, and the studio is called the Dojo. Ninjas work through a colour-coded programme to earn wristbands - or belts - just like in martial arts. 'Belt-up' ceremonies mark a ninja's graduation to the next level.
Ninjas can attend sessions up to twice a week at a time that is convenient for the whole family – so that doesn’t have to mean the same day and time every week. Coding camps run during half-term and the summer holidays where kids can attend during the week filling up activity schedules for busy parents. The studio is also open on Saturdays, allowing families to make the most of the handy location.
With plans to open a second location within the next six months, Charlie and Robin are on the hunt for tech and STEM-loving individuals living locally to join their team.
“Having worked in the education sector for the majority of my career, I’m keen to equip future STEM specialists and coders with valuable, on the job experience by employing young, eager talent to deliver our programme. Teaching children how to code is a great foundation for a future career and something both Charlie and I strongly believe in,” added Robin.
To book a free trial session for your child or to enquire about employment opportunities with Code Ninjas, visit www.codeninjas.co.uk/high-wycombe-bkm-uk