The Code Zone is a coding club where children aged 6-16 can learn through creative challenges and games. They run sessions in Trumpington and Arbury, offering fun, hands-on experiences such as designing games, coding robots and flying drones. They also offer sessions online.
This activity is good for wellbeing because
- Builds confidence in young people by giving them a strong sense of achievement;
- A safe and supportive environment helps to reduce anxiety around learning and fosters positive relationships with other like-minded individuals;
- The Code Zone are accredited by the National Autistic Society (Autism Inclusion Award). They are a safe space for SEND children with mentors who are experienced in working with each child in a way that works for them.
"The Code Zone is a safe and happy place for my son. His natural talent is being recognised, and that’s been a huge confidence boost for him"
How to contact
Where to go
Clay Farm Community Centre
Hobson Square Trumpington Cambridge CB2 9FN
What to expect
The Code Zone run in-person sessions on Wednesday afternoons at Clay Farm Centre, and on Friday afternoons at the Meadows Community Centre. At each location there are three clubs, which each meet for an hour every week: 'Code Bugs' for ages 6-8, 'Tech Builders' for ages 9-10 and 'Future Makers' for ages 11-16+. Parents or carers normally drop children off, but are welcome to stay if they would like.
Sessions are run by trained STEM-certified mentors who can support children of all abilities and levels of experience. Complete beginners are welcome.
At the sessions children learn programming through activities such as building games and experimenting with new technology. Typical activities include:
- Learning coding basics (often starting with Scratch)
- Creating or modifying games
- VR gaming experiences
- Playing and experimenting with new technologies
- Collaborative problem-solving with other children
Throughout the sessions children are free to move between activities and are encouraged to try new things.
The Code Zone offer a free taster session for all new members. Upon arrival children will meet the club mentor, be introduced to the coding activities, and join a group to try a beginner coding task or game-based challenge.
Booking is required in advance. You can book your free taster on the Code Zone website, where you can also see a list of upcoming dates. If you have any questions or concerns you are very welcome to contact [email protected]
More information
The Clay Farm Centre and Meadows Community Centre are both fully accessible buildings, with level access from the street and lifts serving all floors. Both have fully accessible toilets.
All staff / volunteers are DBS checked and the Code Zone have a safeguarding policy in place. The clubs are run by the same mentors each week.
In addition to the in-person clubs there is also an online coding club, with live mentor-led sessions in small groups (maximum 6 children). Find out more on the Code Zone website.
Free taster session for new members - Sign up online
After the free taster session, clubs can be either paid for individually or by term
How to contact
Where to go
Clay Farm Community Centre
Hobson Square Trumpington Cambridge CB2 9FN
