Premier sets coding challenge for young Queenslanders

Education Minister Grace Grace has launched the third annual Premier’s Coding Challenge for students in Years 3 to 10, with $10,000 in prizes up for grabs.

Ms Grace said the popular challenge was an initiative of the Government’s Advancing education action plan.

“We are committed to shaping our students into global citizens and preparing them for the jobs of the future, which is what this challenge is all about,” Ms Grace said.

"It’s also an exciting, fun and engaging way to get children involved in STEM.

“Last year, we saw a significant increase in entries for this competition, which shows the emphasis schools are placing on the coding, creativity and entrepreneurship skills of the next generation.

“From 2017 to 2018, the number of schools signed up to the challenge soared from 23 to 121.

“The number of individual entries increased from 46 in 2017 to 215 in 2018.

“I hope even more schools get on board with this wonderful challenge in 2019.”

Ms Grace said this year’s challenge would be based around cybersafety awareness.

“In 2019, students will be challenged to consider the importance of our digital footprint – the trail of online data we leave, and how to keep it secure,” Ms Grace said.

“Students are being asked to code an innovative and interactive digital solution to raise awareness of cybersafety, providing useful tips for Queenslanders.

“They can enter one of eight categories on offer, submitting an app, a game, an animation, a website or a robotic prototype, along with a short video explaining or evaluating their entry.”

Entries will be assessed by a panel of judges from government, education and industry.

*UPDATED WEBSITE- For information on how to enter the Premier’s Coding Challenge visit https://qld.gov.au/codingcompetition

Media contact: Scott Chandler- 0439 578 472