Meath schools invited to join family-led coding programme with Trinity College
Primary schools across Meath are being invited to take part in a new family-led coding initiative that will see parents and children learn digital skills together through after-school clubs.
Up to 20 schools can apply for the STEAM Team 2026 programme, an initiative from Meath County Council and Trinity College Dublin designed to change how families engage with coding and technology in their local schools.
The programme follows successful pilots in St Stephen’s NS, Moynalty NS and Castletown NS, and is being delivered in partnership with OurKidsCode, a research project based in Trinity College’s School of Computer Science and Statistics.
Rather than adding to teachers’ workloads, the initiative trains parents to lead hands-on coding activities using craft materials and micro:bit programmable devices, working alongside their children in workshops hosted in schools outside of normal hours.
Schools that establish ongoing clubs will receive a dedicated kit containing the devices and materials needed to support continued family coding sessions.
Taster workshops for families in successful schools will begin in March, with the option of developing full parent-led coding clubs from September.
Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council Cllr Wayne Harding said the initiative builds on previous STEAM and coding programmes in the county.
“I am particularly pleased to see such a focus on family involvement. Fostering a collaborative spirit whilst increasing important digital skills will undoubtedly yield fantastic benefits for the children, parents, and schools involved,” he said.
“The partnership with Trinity College Dublin shows the calibre of opportunity we're bringing to Meath families."
Chief Executive of Meath County Council Kieran Kehoe said the programme reflects the local authority’s focus on improving digital skills across communities.
He added: “What makes STEAM Team special is that it builds capacity within families themselves – this isn't about bringing in experts, it's about unlocking the expertise that already exists in our communities."
Meanwhile Éadaoin McGovern, Director of Navan Education Centre, said: “Parental involvement in education – genuinely supporting children in their learning – is an important step forward.”
"This programme brings playful, sensory, and creative approaches to teaching whilst helping parents learn about their child's learning experience, creating a much more collaborative environment in our schools."
Applications are open until February 24 at 12pm, with smaller schools particularly encouraged to apply.