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BBC to give out 1m coding devices to kids as part of new Make it Digital initiative

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By Natalie Mortimer, N/A

March 12, 2015 | 2 min read

The BBC has launched a new digital initiative which will see 1 million coding devices distributed to to every child in year 7 across the UK.

The Make it Digital programme, which launched today (12 March) will aim to inspire a new generation to get creative with coding, programming and digital technology.

Devised in response to the skills shortage within digital - 1.4m digital professionals are needed over the next five years- the BBC will help build the nation’s digital skills, through a range of new programmes, partnerships and projects.

Alongside the distribution of the Micro Bit devices, a season of programmes and online activity will roll out in the coming months involving some of the BBC’s biggest brands, such as Doctor Who, EastEnders and Radio 1, as well as a new BBC Two drama based on Grand Theft Auto.

The Make it Digital Traineeship will also launch to create opportunities for up to 5,000 young unemployed people, and the BBC will partner with around 50 major organisations across the UK, including Apps for Good, ARM, Barclays, British Computing Society, BT, Code Club, DWP and Google.

Tony Hall, BBC director-general, said: “This is exactly what the BBC is all about - bringing the industry together on an unprecedented scale and making a difference to millions.

"Just as we did with the BBC Micro in the 1980s, we want to inspire the digital visionaries of the future. Only the BBC can bring partners together to attempt something this ambitious, this important to Britain’s future on the world stage."

The initiative also comprises a ange of formal education activities and events, including Bitesize, Live Lessons and School Report.

BBC Digital Skills Gap Digital Skills

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