Code Club

St Andrews’ Coders

One of our aims at St Andrews primary is to teach children computer science, information technology and digital literacy: teaching them how to code, and how to create their own programs; not just how to work a computer, but how a computer works and how to make it work for you.

We encourage the develop of IT skills through cross curricular projects, individual coding lessons and through a lunch time club.

One of the coding resources we use is Scratch.

What is Scratch?

Scratch is a graphical programming language, developed by the Lifelong Kindergarten group at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Children can drag and combine code blocks to make a range of programs, including animations, stories, musical instruments and games. It’s a bit like the programming equivalent of Lego!

Using Scratch

Scratch can either be used online, or downloaded and used offline. There are advantages and disadvantages to either approach. Using the online editor doesn’t require any software to be installed on the school’s network. Children can save their projects online, meaning that they can be accessed from home and school. Projects can also be shared online with the Scratch community, giving them a real audience for their creations. The online editor does require a login and a constant Internet connection.

Apps for Coding. Free for iPhone, iPad and Android devices!