Stewart McMillan and Heath Gilham from Creative Bytes are holding free workshops for students in grades 4 to 6, on April 15 at PICAL, as part of their Creative Youth Coding Program to help close the digital divide in regional areas.
The Creative Youth Coding Program, designed to integrate technology and creativity for primary-aged children is coming to Cowes on April 15.
Two workshops run by Creative Bytes will be held at PICAL from 10am.
“We are running two workshops where students in Grades 4-6 will engage in hands-on coding activities, explore creative projects, and collaborate with their peers,” said Creative Bytes co-founder Stewart McMillan.
“My colleague and I will guide the students through the process and ensure a fun and inclusive learning experience.”
Through the program, students developed their own video game, providing the opportunity to learn digital skills in a fun and creative environment.
The first session is almost fully booked, but Stewart is hoping more students will sign up for the program.
Stewart said the Creative Youth Coding Program is designed to integrate technology and creativity, providing students the opportunity to explore coding while enhancing their skills in English, Mathematics, IT, Music, and Visual Communication.
The program was developed in collaboration with leading academics from the University of Melbourne, Monash University, and UNESCO.
“It has shown significant success in Warrnambool, where it was initially launched,” Stewart said.
With the support of a grant from Bass Coast Shire Council, the program will be implemented in Bass Coast over the next 10 months, running in Cowes, Wonthaggi and potentially San Remo.
“Our aim is to reach out to as many young students as possible, focusing on those from disadvantaged backgrounds, and make a positive impact on their education and personal development,” Stewart said.
“The program’s curriculum combines coding and creative arts, allowing students to engage with various subjects while honing their digital skills.
“By participating in the program, students have shown increased confidence in coding, enhanced creativity, and improved understanding of technology in everyday life.
“Teachers have also observed higher levels of engagement and enthusiasm in their students, especially students who are on the spectrum or CALD.”
Stewart said he and friend Heath Gilham founded Creative Bytes during Covid, “when we witnessed the disparity between technology and accessibility in regional Victoria, essentially the digital divide”.
“We are seeking to close the gap and provide free coding classes in regional Victoria.”
To find out more, or to book tickets to the Phillip Island sessions, visit www.creativebytes.org/phillip-island
