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At Code Ninjas Richmond, local youth aged five to 14 are being introduced to the fun and exciting world of coding. But owner Jeffrey Kam says it’s not just for techies.

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Code Ninjas embark on the future

By Don Fennell

Published 11:01 PST, Mon November 8, 2021

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The future is unfolding at Code Ninjas Richmond.

In today’s increasingly fast-paced world, where exchanges of information occur at lightning speed online, coding is taking its place as a key cog in the wheel. And locally Jeffrey Kam is leading the charge—preparing tomorrow’s generation for what is yet to come.

“There is also a common misconception that coding is a special hobby for people interested in going into the tech industry,” says Kam, the owner of Code Ninjas Richmond. “While many of our students have a general interest in tech, that is not a prerequisite for a Code Ninjas program. Our program caters to students of all interest levels, and we want to teach them at a young age to reduce barriers to access when it comes to coding and technological literacy as a whole. I see coding continuing to grow as a critical skill and necessary field of expertise in the national workforce over the next decade.”

Kam’s tech background has given him a front row seat to witness the sector’s growth, which he is confident will only continue. He says there is a push for provincial funding to train more workers in tech, citing a lack of sector professionals and in-depth knowledge to be competitive in the space. Coding is the building block of the everyday products and programs we interact with on a daily basis.

Still in its infancy as a business after opening Oct. 26, the educational coding centre aims to prepare youth aged five to 14 for the growing tech demand. And what better way to do so than by teaching coding through building video games?

Kam was also keen to celebrate National STEM Day on Nov. 8, recognizing a curriculum based on science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

“I think it’s vital for us to celebrate because these fields play a significant role in understanding and improving the society we live in,” he explains. “Combined with other non-STEM fields, STEM learnings equip youth with the tools to expand their mind and career possibilities. Giving all kids the support, preparation and access they need to have a well-rounded education is the first step towards a brighter future.”

A decade from now, Kam envisions that coding will persist on the path it has been accelerating on, and that understanding coding basics will become vital to most industries. Code Ninjas’ programs seek to “normalize” coding as a necessary skill to equip youth with basic technical knowledge for any career path.

But Kam also believes learning coding also helps develop various life skills, such as critical thinking, problem solving, collaborating, and imagination which may also be applied to other careers.

Under Kam’s guidance, Code Ninjas Richmond strives to integrate play and fun into education by presenting concepts through the familiar platform of video games. Kids get support and encouragement to learn languages such as Scratch, Javascript, Lua and C# from trained instructors as they progress towards the black belt.

“While it’s great to see the curriculum expanding in B.C.’s school system, our programs address the educational gap for coding in the STEM curriculum by providing a sophisticated training ground where ‘senseis’ adapt to students’ learning styles and speeds,” Kam explains. “Youth learn at different speeds, and some are at different levels than others. Our programs amplify what students are already being taught in schools and provide a safe space where they can practice their skills.”

Coding is for everyone, says Kam, describing it as “an inclusive activity that is for anyone who seeks to try and learn it.”

“It doesn’t take any unique skills, expert math or science abilities, or certain personality traits to be able to understand and apply coding knowledge. In fact, it’s actually a medium for creative expression—whether it’s making videos, composing music, or of course, building video games. All it takes is a will to learn and a desire to have lots of fun while doing it.”

In its first weeks, word of Code Ninjas Richmond is spreading quickly. Ten students signed up for its CREATE program, with many more coming in for a free 30-minute game-building session and tour of the centre. During the pandemic, all health and safety regulations are being adhered to including disinfecting of surfaces between visits to the site at Unit 125–6699 River Rd.