MP joins Norbridge students for a lesson in code

Bassetlaw MP John Mann (left) with Barclays volunteers at Norbridge Academy in Worksop

The newly-crowned classroom favourite incorporates skills such as learning to code – the engine that drives the latest computer game graphics and Hollywood blockbuster special effects.

Barclays research shows nearly a quarter (24 per cent) of British school children say computing is their favourite subject and the findings show just how far education has swung from their parents’ generation who favoured English during their school days (21 per cent).

However, the statistics also show that the introduction of coding into the National Curriculum has left some parents unable to help on their children’s new favourite school subject.

Nearly a third of parents (30 per cent) don’t believe they can assist their children with computing homework and many said they ‘dread’ helping with it.

This initiative gives customers and non-customers alike the opportunity to learn about coding online or in branch with the help of a Barclays Digital Eagle.

Parents and grandparents are encouraged to participate in order to bridge the divide between the generations’ digital know-how.

George Huthart, head teacher, at Norbridge Academy said: “The children were really inspired to continue their coding journey outside of school and feel better prepared for the new digital world.

“We would like to thank Barclays Digital Eagles for the session and are looking forward to continuing to build on this in our computing curriculum.”

Mr Mann added: “I was delighted to visit Norbridge Academy to see the pupils working with staff from Barclays to learn more about what has become an important subject being taught in schools today.”

Phil Simpson, branch manager for Barclays in the Worksop area commented: “Our Digital Eagles work in local communities to give people the opportunity to learn and embrace digital skills, from sending an email, Skyping family or learning how to bank online.

“We’re now expanding that support to include coding either online or in branch – so whether you’re seven or one hundred and seven, you can take advantage of the opportunity to learn the emerging language of the new digital economy.”