Code Ninjas Newbury (Review)
On 29th May 2021, we were invited to go along to the grand opening of the new Code Ninjas studio in Newbury. I took my tech-loving 6 year old (Eva) along with me, to experience the kids coding dojo.
Code Ninjas is a kids club with a difference. Children can be dropped off by their parents where they will be in a safe, fun and educational setting. They learn how to code at their own pace using various devices, robots and circuits. The idea is to develop their coding skills through story telling, games and problem solving. As they learn from the Code Senseis at the dojo, children are able to move up and achieve their ‘belts’.
The curriculum teaches them code to games they may already know. They learn STEM skills, solve mathematical problems and understand how technology works.
The white, yellow and orange belts are introductions to game development, game building and control statements. The green, blue and purple belts are intermediate levels. Then the brown, red and black belt are advanced levels.
Joining Code Ninjas Newbury
Code Ninjas is the world’s largest and fasted growing coding franchise. There are clubs for 7-14 year olds and Code Ninjas JR for ages 5-7 year olds. There are various pricing packages for children to spend time at the studio. They can even go for an hour or two in the evenings if their parents want to go out somewhere.
There are options to pay monthly or quarterly and you can choose the amount of hours per week you would like.
Have a look at the Code Ninjas website for more details and to find out about exclusive discounts.
What is it like?
When Eva and I went along for the launch party, we were warmly welcomed by owners Marcus Brind and Heather Blakesley. And all of the staff (Senseis) who were incredibly friendly and helpful. Code Ninjas Newbury was officially opened by the Mayor of Newbury, Billy Drummond, where he told me that it is such a great idea for the children. Situated on London Road, slightly away from the town centre – it is easily found and there is plenty of parking.
Eva was introduced to her first coding experience. Devices, robots and circuits were set out on tables, where children could freely have a go. The Senseis were on hand to help out and show the children what to do. They also did a great job of ensuring everything was done safely with facemasks, limited numbers, a one way system and sanitising each device after use.
There were also plenty of refreshments, fun Ninja cookies and cakes, and of course a goodie bag for Eva.
Although Eva had very little coding experience, she picked it up very quickly. Everything was her level of ability, with a few trickier things to learn.
She had fun playing with the robot, connecting circuits and using her favourite device of the day – the Meowbit. This little retro style console comes in different colours, and is great for gaming and coding. Thankfully this was the last thing she had a go with – as she refused to put it down!
Where to find them
If you have a child aged 5-14 and you think they would enjoy learning coding skills, then get in touch for more information. You can find Code Ninjas Newbury on Facebook.
Address is: 125 London Road Unit 4, Newbury, Berks, RG14 2BX
