Dorset Coding Week is set to inspire youngsters for the fourth consecutive year.
The annual event, organised by Dorset Council, Barclays Digital Eagles and BCP Council, will run from October 6 to 10, open to students aged 9 to 12.
A fresh addition to this year’s event is the new STEM mascot, Boter the Axolotl, designed by last year’s ‘design a mascot’ competition winners, Stourfield Junior School.
Councillor Richard Biggs, Dorset Council’s cabinet member for property, assets and economic growth, said: "We are really pleased to offer Dorset Coding Week to schools across the county for a fourth year.
"For our economy to grow in the future, we need to inspire young children about the opportunities available to them in digital industries right here in Dorset.
"But not only that, we want to get school children excited about coding, which is everywhere in many different forms, which some children may find surprising.
"It's crucial that we encourage both boys and girls to explore coding and STEM subjects, breaking down gender barriers and fostering inclusivity in tech."
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The event is set up to make coding fun and accessible, hoping to change children's perceptions and spark their curiosity and excitement.
Barclays Digital Eagles will be providing interactive classroom activities, and a team of Dorset tech volunteers will be on hand to support and give talks, helping students develop coding skills and learn about the world of work.
Dorset Coding Week is open to schools and children in a home-school setting.
To sign up, visit dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/dorset-coding-week-2025.
The council is also encouraging tech industry professionals to volunteer, aiding in practical sessions in schools and sharing their experiences with the students.
Volunteers can sign up on the Dorset Council website.
This initiative aligns with the importance of starting early with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths) education, especially for girls, who often lose interest in these subjects due to societal biases and lack of representation.
STEM education prepares students for well-paid careers and a rapidly changing job market, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and digital literacy, which are crucial for success in today's tech-driven world.
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