Jobs of the future require a different skill set to those we have mastered in years gone by. Australia’s Committee for Economic Development predicts that 40% of jobs that exist in Australia today will disappear in the next 15 years as a result of technological change.
We all depend on and use technology. Knowing how to code helps us to understand technology. Coding is telling a computer what to do. It is what makes it possible for us to create computer software, apps and websites.
Learning coding has many benefits and understanding computer science is becoming increasingly essential in today’s world. Coding is important because its impact extends far beyond simply creating software and websites. It teaches you how to think, inquire, solve problems, design, create, express yourself and understand the technology shaping your world.
Students can attend coding classes and make use of the school’s recent investment in software and technology including Raspberry Pi’s, Makey Makey’s and Sphero’s to enhance their coding experience.
TIGS coding club meets at the Library on Tuesdays at lunch time and is open to students from Year 3 to Year 6. It provides a platform for students to learn how to code through games, stories, puzzles, tutorials and projects. Students have the opportunity to work individually or collaboratively and progress from introductory programmes to more advanced programming concepts. Coding fosters critical thinking and problem solving skills that will benefit students in all facets of their learning.
In the Senior School, students from Year 7 to Year 12 have the opportunity to compete in the NCSS challenge. This is a unique and innovative competition which runs over five weeks in August and September. It teaches students about programming through weekly course notes and features a series of challenges ranging in difficulty based on the individual’s experience and skill level. The combination of tailored course material and solving practical problems accelerates learning. Students meet as a group at the Library on Thursday afternoons and continue to work on the challenges in their own time.
In addition to the NCSS challenge, TIGS offers Lego Robotics and Makerspace all year round for students interested in the hand-on application of technology.
When learning a new skill such as coding, the opportunity to apply this in a practical setting enhances learning and opens up employment prospects. TIGS has established a community partnership with a unique and ground-breaking startup, the Digital Business Hub, which partners senior students with expert trainers.
Over a 10-week term they apply their digital skills to real business problems in the evenings. Students develop WordPress websites and work on social media for local small businesses and non profits devising ways to enhance the company’s digital presence. They learn essential workforce skills such as client liaison, social media skills, teamwork, creative collaboration, marketing and business terminology. Participants receive a work reference and e-portfolio, with some students gaining ongoing casual employment in the field.
To learn more, contact Nadia Merchant, Director of Information Services on 4220 0200 or nmerchant@tigs.nsw.edu.au
