Telstra 'Codemates' to Teach Kids Coding and Digital Skills

Telstra has launched ‘Codemates’, an initiative to teach kids essential digital skills for the future, by inviting them to control an animatronic puppet named Patch using code. The program tutorials are aligned to the Australian Curriculum: Digital Technologies, with learning modules designed to teach complex problem-solving skills by coding musical farts, martial arts moves, and terrible jokes. Making coding feel tangible and connecting with kids on their level.

With Australia facing a shortfall of 131,000 technology workers by 2030, according to the Future Skills Organisation Workforce Plan 2025, the digital skills that coding teaches kids are more valuable than ever.

For over two decades, Telstra has helped hundreds of thousands of Aussie kids dive into digital skills through free programs like Code Club. As the campaign coincides with the 10th year anniversary of annual coding competition Moonhack, the digital experience and teaching resources will be rolled out amongst thousands of Code Clubs across Australia.

Brent Smart, CMO, Telstra, said, “Instead of creating a campaign about how many young people the Telstra Foundation has helped, we thought it was more interesting if our idea focused on helping even more young people.”

“Bringing a puppet to life, literally, with the help of young coders, is as fun as it is smart. Can't wait to see what kids make Patch do," said Micah Walker, founder and chief creative officer for Bear Meets Eagle On Fire.

Jackie Coates, CEO of the Telstra Foundation, added, “Through Code Club Australia, we’ve already helped hundreds of thousands of kids get started on their coding journey. With Codemates, we’re taking it a step further with a new, exciting and unforgettable way to inspire the next generation of digital thinkers to create, explore and dream big. And the more we make tech playful and inclusive, the more kids can see themselves in its future.”