Celebrating the Impact of the Irish Code Week for Children Across Ireland
12/09/25
Across the island of Ireland, the response to EU Code Week has been remarkable. Thanks to the dedication of schools, teachers, and local partners, a total of 6,650 coding activities were registered between January 2024 and June 2025, engaging an impressive 145,468 young people.
These aren’t just numbers on a page. They represent real experiences: thousands of children discovering coding for the first time, building their confidence with digital tools, and learning through creativity and collaboration. From small rural classrooms to busy urban schools, the appetite for hands-on digital learning has been clear, and it’s growing.
Minecraft Education: Where Play Meets Purpose
One of the most engaging tools used throughout these activities has been Minecraft Education. This educational version of the beloved game turns playtime into learning time, encouraging children to tackle real-world challenges through digital design and problem-solving.
From constructing sustainable cities to exploring the basics of engineering, children are not only building in-game worlds—they’re building confidence, critical thinking skills, and a passion for discovery. Many of these sessions have been held as part of EU Code Week, allowing children in Ireland to connect with a broader European movement of young digital creators.
World Autism Day: A Celebration of Inclusion
In a particularly meaningful programme, the organisers marked World Autism Day with a series of specially tailored events aimed at ensuring every child feels included and celebrated.
With 350 activities reaching over 10,000 participants, this initiative was a standout success. A huge thanks goes to the Microsoft Dream Space team, whose support helped make these sessions not only possible but truly memorable. Their commitment to inclusion and quality was key to creating welcoming spaces for children of all abilities to engage with digital learning.
Girls in Digital: Inspiring Future Changemakers
Gender balance in tech remains a global challenge, and the EU Code Week is doing its part to change that also in Ireland. Through the Girls in Digital initiative, the organisers have delivered targeted events and workshops designed to inspire girls to step into the world of coding and digital problem-solving with confidence.
By highlighting female role models and offering hands-on learning opportunities, these sessions help girls see themselves as future coders, designers, and innovators, showing that tech is a place for everyone.
Reaching Classrooms Across the Island
One of the most impressive aspects of the initiative is its reach. Thousands of schools have taken part, with teachers playing a vital role in bringing Code Week to life in their classrooms. Whether in small rural schools or large urban centres, educators have opened their doors to digital creativity, giving pupils the tools they need to think critically and dream big.
Thanks to their support, children everywhere have had the chance to take part in fun, meaningful learning experiences that will serve them well into the future.
A Shared Mission for the Future
To every child who took part, every teacher who said yes, and every volunteer and partner who lent a hand—thank you. Your enthusiasm and support are helping shape a brighter, more inclusive digital future for all.
The journey doesn’t stop here. Together, let’s keep learning, exploring, and building something amazing.
