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Generation Code Accelerator is a programme designed by UK Youth to support the lack of embedded, sustainable digital provision in the youth sector. This means we worked with a small group of youth organisations over a year to use bring more digital into their work. This included running digital skills workshops, bringing in local volunteers from the tech sector, and educating young people about opportunities to find work in the tech sector. Download the Generation Code Accelerator – Handbook for more details.
This page is a collection of our top tips and resources from this programme for both youth workers and young people.
Looking to learn new skills?
Digital Media Skills
If you are interested in learning new digital media and creative skills or developing a new hobby, have a look at Voice Mag’s How-To guides below.
Career pathways and learning
If you are interested in learning new skills, understanding specific career pathways and preparing for interviews, try Linkedin Learning.
Linkedin Learning
Online Workshops
If you are interested in joining a free Live webinar on a number of topics, have a browse of the schedule of upcoming workshops by the Microsoft Experience Centre
Want to learn how to code?
Try it on your own
Here are the links to two beginner friendly websites where you can develop your coding skills and learn how to create games, animations and more.
Join a club
Looking for a coding club near you? Use the link below to find a local coding club and information on how to set up your own.
Creating a podcast
Young people from Aik Saath have begun recording and produce their own podcast after investing in some recording equipment.
Equipment needed = Microphone (headphone mic or a professional mic), laptop and editing software (free or paid versions)
Have a listen to an episode here:
Sloughcast – Maz gets tested
Creating stop-motion films
Riley from Young Lincolnshire created this funny stop-motion film – we love the sound effects he’s edited in!
Equipment needed = A smart phone, an editing app and a subject to photograph (models, plasticine, legos or real people)
Google “Stop Motion videos” for tons of ideas on how to make your own.
Creating 3D models
Young people from Youth Scotland and Eritrean Youth Club explored the world of 3D modelling, using a free online application called Tinkercad. The platform, used by people of all ages and skill levels, can be used to create 3D models and export them for 3D printing.
Equipment needed = A laptop or computer. No download required.
If 3D modelling isn’t your thing, Tinkercad can also support you to learn about electronics and coding.
Tinkercad
Coding activites with Micro:bits
Coding activities with Micro:bits can bring code to life, see the smiley face that has been designed below using code!
micro:bit website
Equipment = Micro:bits (order online), Laptop or tablet with USB port, internet access to use the free coding programme
We need some inspiration
This youth club in North London is an expert in engaging young people in digital, media and tech activities. Click below to check out their offer.
Soapbox Islington
We would need to upgrade or renew the equipment we have
There are options popping up all the time to get cheap or free equipment, or for grants.
This directory lists many organisations across the UK which offer recycled IT equipment
IT for Charities Directory
You may also have success with local offices or organisations to ask if they are able to donating any of their old equipment. In the mean time, why not try using smart phones to learn coding or create and edit videos.
There are also offline coding games which are great for beginners
Generation Code Offline Coding Session Plan
We need experts to support us with digital sessions
We have worked with some amazing volunteers from STEM Learning and are a great place to start for connections to passionate people working in Tech!
STEM ambassador hub
It could be also worth asking around for volunteers at local tech companies or organisations with digital roles – lots of companies now encourage their employees to take volunteering days so they might be interested in supporting a session or answering questions about their career in tech.
Coding or digital skills sessions don’t seem exciting enough
Digital is so broad that it is almost always possible to find a connection to something that the young people do find interesting. Whether this is in the arts, gaming or even sports. Exploring these themes and looking for examples in the real world can help to spark interest and break down misconceptions about working in tech.
These Hackathon style challenges help young people think creatively about how technology is used to improve many aspects of our lives. Try one of these or make up your own:
City of Tomorrow – Environment ChallengeHeads Up – Mental Health App Challenge
I’m struggling with delivering great sessions virtually
Delivering online can pose various challenges, just as delivering face-to-face can. Our tips for delivering great sessions online over Zoom or a similar platform are included in this guide, including advice on safeguarding, risks and working in groups
Digital Youth Work Guide
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2020 – 2021 For any questions or feedback about the resources on this page please email jessica.peacock@ukyouth.org .