CoderDojo Mullingar accepting new members and volunteers

CoderDojo Mullingar is accepting new members (and volunteers) at all levels, from Saturday next, February 17.

Sessions run from 11am to 1pm. Mentors introduce topics and systems, but members are strongly encouraged to work on their own projects, either on their own or (preferably) in teams or alongside other members.

Members are also encouraged to present and explain their projects to the group whenever possible.

CoderDojo is not a school, there are no lessons or homework.

Members should ideally ask each other for help and ideas if they are struggling with a concept.

Fostering confidence, resilience, and teamwork are almost as central to the CoderDojo ethos as ‘learning to code’.

Not everyone who attends goes on to a career in tech or STEM but it’s a chance to give it a try in a relaxed, supportive environment and maybe make some new friends.

It’s part of a global network of clubs with similar aims.

A Dojo is a free, volunteer-led, community-based programming club for young people.

Anyone aged seven to 17 can visit a Dojo and learn to code, build a website, or create an app or game.

CoderDojo exists to help young people realise that they can build a positive future through learning to code, and because:

• Having an understanding of programming languages is already useful, and becoming moreso, even with the rise of AI!

• It is easier to learn these digital skills early

• Everyone should have the opportunity to learn to code, regardless of personal circumstance.

New members at all levels are welcome. It’s free, and there are some spare PCs available if you don’t currently have one of your own.

If you ‘re planning to bring a tablet (e.g. an iPad), it would be great if you could also bring a bluetooth keyboard - a lot of what they do is easier if you’re not using a touch-screen.

Computers don’t care if you’re a girl, a boy, somewhere in-between or haven’t made your mind up yet. So there’s no harm in giving it a try if you’re available between 11 and 1 on a Saturday.

CoderDojo Mullingar are in Forest Park (just off the road on the way to the Joe Dolan Bridge). All the information you need can be found on their website or Facebook page, or email them.

“We gained some great new team members this year but we’re also always open to volunteers. Volunteers do not need to be coders or to have any technical background.

“Training will be provided where necessary, but we still especially need more women and girls in leadership and mentorship roles. For those in post-primary education, it’s a great way to support the Short Course in Coding at Junior Cert level, or Computer Science on the Senior Cycle, or as a way to earn points towards a ‘Gaisce’ award either as a learner or as a volunteer.”