JCA has joined up with the School of Coding to offer school trips linked to coding in what is thought to be the first partnership of its kind.
The visits will combine traditional outdoor activities with hands-on digitally focused workshops.
Students will learn a range of new and transferable skills using the latest in coding software, robots and drones under the guidance of the award-winning School of Coding team.
Visiting pupils will be able to choose from new workshops covering STEM, coding, engineering and robotics, integrated into JCA’s indoor and outdoor activity programmes.
The initiative will first launch at JCA’s Condover Hall Activity Centre in Shropshire this summer with activity days available primarily for local schools including tech workshops.
Richard Twynam is the new managing director for Experience Education, which includes JCA Adventure.
He said: “One of the things that has really struck me since joining the portfolio when speaking to teachers is the challenge they face in having to prepare children for jobs that don’t yet exist because of how fast-moving technology is. That got us thinking and sparked our discussions with the School of Coding to create this offer which gives children an opportunity to learn about coding, combined with the outdoors.
“As a leading name in school activity residentials, the addition of the School of Coding aligns with our passion to continue as pioneers in education and sport.”
Recent research from BAE Systems Digital Intelligence found that almost half of the British public believes a lack of IT and tech education throughout primary and secondary school has been a barrier to a potential career in tech.
Suki Gill, director of education and quality from the School of Coding and AI said: “We’re thrilled to team up with Condover Hall. Together, we’re ready to unleash a whirlwind of adventure and fun, crafting one-of-a-kind experiences through coding, robotics and outdoor activities that’ll have both kids and adults grinning from ear to ear!”
As part of JCA’s commitment to opening new avenues of interest accessible to boys and girls, the School of Coding has an impressive track record of working with a range of educational establishments as well as being an official UK Government partner.
Initially JCA plans to work primarily with local schools in Shropshire with this pioneering effort to merge outdoor experiences with cutting-edge technology education and help shape future local tech leaders.
Find out more about the School of Coding activity days and workshops here.
