When you’re starting off, you will most likely have to actively promote your Dojo in order to attract young people to it. It’s perfectly normal to start with only a handful of Ninjas and grow from there. The best way to do so is to reach out to existing groups and networks.
You could consider contacting:
- Schools
- Youth centres
- Youth groups (e.g. local sports teams, Scouts/Guides, etc.)
- Parents groups
- Large organisations where many parents work
To help with this, we've created a template letter for you to use:
Subject: Join our free CoderDojo coding club!
Dear parent/guardian,
We are delighted to announce that we will be [launching/re-commencing] our free coding and digital making club at [address] in [January 2018], and we are currently looking for new young people to attend!
Our sessions will be taking place [every other Wednesday, starting 10 January 2018, from 18:00–19:30].
What is CoderDojo?
CoderDojo is a global, open-source, volunteer-led movement that organises free, not-for-profit coding clubs (Dojos) for young people aged 7–17. At a Dojo, young people learn to program and develop websites, apps, programs, and games, they build things with code and electronics, and much more. Members also meet like-minded people, show off what they’ve been working on, and they can take part in national and international events, such as our Coolest Projects showcase (coolestprojects.org). CoderDojo makes learning to code a fun, sociable, and creative experience. You can find out more at coderdojo.com.
How to join
Attending is free of charge, however signing up is necessary in order to guarantee your child a place. Visit our Dojo web page and register your interest by clicking the ‘Join’ button: [link to Dojo page on Zen]. Once there, you will also be able to reserve a space for upcoming Dojo sessions.
- What should I bring to the event? All children should bring a laptop. In case you cannot provide one, we have a small number of loan laptops. Please add that your child requires one to the 'additional notes' section when booking a ticket.
- Am I required to attend? Yes, children must be accompanied by a parent/guardian, who is required to remain on the premises for the duration of the session. You will be asked to help your child(ren) get set up and ready, though after this, our volunteer mentors will assist your children in their learning.
- Should my child or I have prior coding knowledge? No, the Dojo is open to complete beginners as well as to young people who have coded before: we have skilled mentors who will help with technical questions.
Please note that we have a limited amount of spaces, so remember to sign your child up in advance for each session. We look forward to welcoming you both to our Dojo!
Kind regards,
[Champion name]
Champion, CoderDojo [Dojo name]
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