A new coding program has been launched to help prepare high school students for the jobs of the future by giving them hands-on experience in the basics of computer programming.
Open to Year 7 and Year 8 students, the Premier’s Coding Challenge was launched by New South Wales Premier Gladys Berejiklian.
“As part of the coding challenge students at 50 high schools across the state will use a specialised coding kit to develop their programming skills,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“The workplace is changing before our eyes and this challenge will prepare students for new industries which are emerging in innovative, high-tech sectors.
“These new industries are creating limitless career opportunities for people with the appropriate skills and there is no better time to acquire those skills than in high school.”
Acting NSW Chief Scientist, Dr Chris Armstrong, said the program will boost STEM capabilities across the state.
“This challenge will not only enable students to see first-hand how computational technology works, but also give them a sense of how innovative thinking can offer smart solutions to real-world problems,” he said.
President of the Trust of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) Barney Glover said students involved will use a MAAS ThinkerShield coding kit.
“We have developed the ThinkerShield to provide an engaging STEM learning experience. It will be fascinating to see how budding scientists and engineers apply this technology in new ways,” Mr Glover said.
Students and teachers who take part in the Premier’s Coding Challenge will receive a Bronze, Silver, Gold or Diamond Level achievement award.