Free computer programming workshop

The Greytown Public Library is opening up its doors to young people and their teachers to come along and learn about coding or computer programming. The workshop is free for young people aged 10-18, and will be held on Sunday 20 September from 9.30-3.30.

The workshop provides a fun day learning the basics of website design and programming . “The workshops are a great way to inspire their curiosity and help them see the makings of technology for themselves,” says south Wairarapa libraries’ manager Helen McNaught.

“Coding is one of the must-have skills for the 21st century as it opens the door to more complex technologies and an understanding of the huge range of opportunities computer science out there,” she said.
“Using HTML, CSS, JQuery or Python to create simple websites, participants will learn the basics of coding, design and content presentation.”

“The good thing is that the learning will culminate in skills which can be applied straight away, as well as having a deeper understanding of what makes websites work the way they do.”

So, why libraries, you might ask?
“Local libraries in the 21st century play a significant role in bridging the ‘digital divide’. We act as a hub for the community in providing loads of online information and services and we’re also strong connectors to young people offering them a safe place to hang out.”
The Wairarapa libraries jointly hosted the first pilot workshop in Masterton in April this year. Now we’re bringing the workshop to Greytown to encourage greater participation from south Wairarapa youth. However, we’ve also got more workshops happening in Masterton, with website building on Saturday 19 September, and Python programming for 13-18 year olds on Saturday 3 October.

Young people aged 10-18 (Years 6-13) and their teachers are encouraged to register. And if you already know all about website coding, consider volunteering as a mentor.

Registration details and workshop dates are at www.gatherworskhops.co.nz/events. There are limited places, so register now!