Four years ago, Code Ninjas Hornchurch set out on a mission to spark creativity and digital curiosity in local kids. What began as a vision for a fun, welcoming space to explore coding has blossomed into a vibrant centre where children develop tech skills through engaging, game-based projects. As Centre Owners and married couple Nick Susta and Carmen Siciliano look back on this exciting journey, they are celebrating the incredible growth of their community, the inspiring projects created and the valuable skills cultivated along the way.
Before venturing into the world of coding education, Nick spent 20 years working in the finance industry. However, when it came time to find an extracurricular activity that was both fun and educational for their kids, Nick and Carmen were left searching for something more. It was then that they realised the need for a programme that combined digital literacy with a love for learning, leading them to open Code Ninjas Hornchurch in 2021.
“We never imagined that four years would pass so quickly,” said Nick. “It’s been incredible to see our centre become such an important part of the Hornchurch community. From the moment we opened, our goal was to create a space where kids could not only learn coding but also feel supported and inspired. Watching our Ninjas – what we like to call our students – develop has been an amazing journey, and we’re grateful to everyone who has joined us along the way.”
At Code Ninjas Hornchurch, kids aged 7 to 14 learn how to code in a safe, inclusive and social learning environment where gaming is celebrated and STEM is cool. The programme allows kids to dive into fun, challenging, and rewarding projects and activities that engage them and develop skills to benefit their future.
The most rewarding part of launching Code Ninjas for Nick and Carmen has been seeing so many kids in the community find a place to build confidence and truly be themselves. “We’ve had kids who were quiet or shy and, over time, we’ve watched them open up, make new friends and become more self-assured,” explained Carmen. “For some of our neurodiverse Ninjas, it’s even more remarkable to see how coding helps them develop skills that will carry them through life.
“We recently celebrated a major milestone as our first Ninja, Alaric, began his Black Belt journey – a fantastic achievement that coincides with our four-year anniversary. Reflecting on how far we’ve come, especially seeing our Ninjas accomplish incredible things, has truly been the highlight of this journey.”
Another memorable highlight that stands out for Carmen was when a parent shared how their child had struggled to find an activity they were passionate about, but, after joining Code Ninjas, it was as if they had found their ‘tribe’. “Being able to provide a space where kids who may not be interested in traditional activities, like football or drama, can thrive and find confidence has made the last four years more fulfilling than we could have imagined.”
Nick and Carmen are quick to acknowledge that the success of Code Ninjas Hornchurch is a team effort, with the incredible Senseis – as Code Ninjas calls their instructors – playing a crucial role in helping kids build confidence and develop skills. This is something the husband-and-wife team hopes will continue for many years to come.
“Our Senseis have been instrumental in our success,” said Nick. “They help create a safe and welcoming environment for all the Ninjas and I’m so grateful to work alongside such a passionate team. The journey doesn’t end here – we’re excited to continue growing and providing quality coding education in a time when digital literacy is more important than ever.”
To learn more about Code Ninjas Hornchurch, visit www.codeninjas.co.uk/hornchurch-ess-uk
