” With job losses to AI in the coming decades predicted in the millions, coding is one skill that looks futureproof. “
The Guardian
Websites. Apps. Video games. Nimble startups and huge blue-chips. From the smartphones we use everyday, to the algorithms businesses and organisations use to work more efficiently and deliver better services, the world is built on code. English might be the most important language in the world – but coding is catching up with it rapidly.
Even if you don’t pursue a career in coding, it’s a key skill for getting ahead. Just understanding the structures behind coding and being able to read and write the basics in a language or two can be a career game-changer – not to mention the resilience, creativity and problem-solving skills it empowers.
But with so many languages out there, it can be difficult to know where to start. To help, we’ve outlined the different languages you can learn – so you can choose the one right for your child.
Ozoblockly
Ozoblockly is the coding language used with Ozobots – small, cute robots that can be programmed to follow instructions, from navigating mazes to following colour-coded lines. It’s a great first language to introduce young children to the world of coding.
Java
You might have heard of this one: Java is one of the most long-standing languages and it’s as well-liked and widely used as ever. A general-purpose computer-programming language, it’s used for everything from computer games, cloud-based applications to self-driving cars. It’s perfect for teens new to coding.
Python
Instagram, Spotify and Facebook and many other tech behemoths are built on this powerful programming language. Python is used for everything from web and app development to machine learning and data analysis. Teens are often introduced to it on Computer Science GCSE. We offer multiple courses for both 9 to 12 and 13 to 17 year olds.
C#
Unity is the world’s most popular tool for game developers and uses the coding language C# (pronounced C-sharp). This is an advanced coding language that can be used to create rich, interactive 2D and 3D games for desktops, smartphones and consoles. We’d recommend this language if you already have some experience in Java or Python.
Roblox
Scratch’s popularity stems from its ‘drag-and-drop’ design. Instead of writing code, kids can learn through creating, dragging and dropping colourful command blocks. This visual approach helps children to grasp the concept of programming quickly, making simplified, graphical programming tools such as Scratch perfect for beginners.
It’s a creative language, too: Scratch allows kids to easily create games, come up with interactive stories, animate characters, build apps, add music, voice overs and even sound effects. Plus, kids can reference 2D games already in existence, such as Asteroids and Donkey Kong, which were all created using the Scratch programme.
Lua (Roblox)
Lua is an easy to use coding language for games engines – and most notably in Roblox, the online game platform popular with children. This unique coding language is embedded in Roblox and gives kids the opportunity to learn a combination of block and text-based code to build a 3D world. The roblox community allows like-minded kids to power their imagination!
Jackson's Fire Tech journey
Before Fire Tech
Jackson had no interest in technology or coding and thought of it as a confusing, abstract idea that "other people do."
After Fire Tech
Jackson has been inspired to study Computer Science for his A-Levels, at University, and eventually, he wants to get a job in the billion-dollar tech industry.
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Meet Leszek
Leszek studies Electronic and Information Engineering at Imperial College London and teaches our coding courses. He loves using his STEM skills to bring people together and recently created an Imperial college fantasy football app that connects 200 players together.
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