Top 5 Coding Clubs in London for Children

Coding clubs are a fun way to learn to instruct a computer, to build your own game or command a robot. Face-to-face classes help kids focus on coding projects and they benefit from hands-on support there, plus there are opportunities to make new friends. Here are 5 of the best in London.

Wizzie Wizzie

Wizzie Wizzie is a free Saturday morning computer club teaching kids how to design computer games, websites and applications, for ages 8 -14. Currently the only location is in Highbury, North London, but they hope to expand to other boroughs in future. The club was set up by volunteer computer programmers to address the shortage of 200,000 software engineers in the UK. It is run by the Diverse Digital Educational Technology Charity. It gives children a practical foundation in programming. The coding languages Scratch, Ruby, Python and Groovy are taught during 90 minute classes.

FunTech

FunTech has different levels of classes for children aged 7-16 in a wide range of areas, including LEGO Robotics, Minecraft coder, Python Game Coder and AI machines. Term time courses are held online in a “virtual classroom”, but there are in-person holiday courses held at venues across London. Kids learn to create their own games in a fun, enthusiastic environment. 

Cypher

At Cypher, kids complete a new programme every week using Python, Javascript, CoSpace and Scratch. They take place at London’s most prestigious schools including Chepstow House, Wimbledon High School and University College School. The aim is to prepare kids aged 6 - 12 for a successful future in which technology features more and more. Each lesson has a theme so that whilst learning programming kids also learn about the world around them. The curriculum builds skills in creativity, communication and collaboration. Staff are trained to inspire and are chosen for their enthusiasm and experience.

Software Academy

The Software Academy in Cricklewood offers accredited courses for ages 6 - 16. During term time, the weekly classes are online, but in the holidays they have in-person courses. These sessions take place in a high-tech studio with an emphasis on exploring what the various tools can do. Courses include Unreal Engine, Python for designing games, Adobe apps and Computer Basics. There is even animation and architectural visualisation.

Code Ninjas

With a range of locations around London and various sessions throughout the week, Code Ninjas offer great opportunities for children to learn coding and make new friends. Children create their own video games using platforms like Minecraft and Roblox, so they are having fun at the same time as learning new skills. They offer after school programmes and weekend groups for kids aged 5-14, to fit around your lifestyle. 

Coding helps kids develop language as well as maths skills without really realising. They develop confidence and resilience through trial and error. Though there are many on-line classes, in a face-to-face class they make new friends with similar interests and learn to work as a team.

Find more activities for children in London on Hoop.

Photo by Adam Winger on Unsplash