Stepping into the world of coding can be intimidating, especially when stereotypes suggest it’s a “boy’s thing”. But at Code Ninjas Chelmsford, one Centre Director is on a mission to change that narrative – one line of code at a time. Sophie Johnston’s dedication to empowering young minds has now been recognised on the international stage with a nomination for Centre Director of the Year – winning UK Regional Centre Director of the Year Award overall! – celebrating her inspiring journey and unwavering commitment to making coding accessible for all.
After graduating with a Criminology degree in 2020, Sophie faced a challenging job market and began teaching English as a foreign language online. During that time, she discovered a love for teaching and supporting others in their learning journey. But when she discovered a job opening at Code Ninjas, she saw an opportunity to try something new. Despite having no prior coding experience, she joined the team as a Lead Sensei – Sensei being the term Code Ninjas uses for its instructors. Just two months later, driven by her vision of creating an inclusive environment, Sophie stepped up as Centre Director.
“Taking on this role was an incredible opportunity,” shared Sophie. “John and Steve Yew, the Centre Owners, saw my potential and trusted me to step up to the challenge. I wasn’t exposed to coding at an early age since school IT lessons focused mostly on basic computing skills, so I had to learn quickly. Thankfully, my amazing team of Senseis and our Ninjas, the term we use for our students, helped teach me along the way – and they had fun doing it too!
“Young girls and women may think they have to be ‘natural’ at coding, but that’s not true at all. I discovered that learning to code is a superpower for this next generation. I’m truly honoured to be recognised for this work – it means so much to know that the impact I’m striving to make is being celebrated.”
At Code Ninjas Chelmsford, 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 they get to develop skills to benefit their future.
With the help of the team at Code Ninjas – and some Ninjas too! – Sophie has worked her way up to now helping new Ninjas take on coding. Her journey proves that anything is possible.
“At Code Ninjas, I’ve worked through both the old and new curriculums, learning coding languages including block code, JavaScript and C#,” explained Sophie. “I never thought I had a ‘coding brain,’ but I’ve always loved problem-solving and logic puzzles. As a teenager, I was unknowingly developing tech skills, customising Myspace with basic HTML and scripting games on Roblox, just like kids today mod Minecraft or build in Fortnite. They’re taking their first steps into coding without even realising it!”
Sophie believes that creating equal opportunities at a young age is essential for girls to explore the STEM field. “Encouragement from their inner circle – friends, family and teachers – truly makes all the difference. Kids also learn best when they feel comfortable, which is why I strive to make our dojo a place where they can have fun, make friends and explore tech without pressure. The learning follows naturally when they’re building confidence and problem-solving in a relaxed environment.”
For John and Steve, Sophie’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. “For us, seeing Sophie’s journey from joining as a Sensei to becoming an internationally recognised – and nationally award-winning! – Centre Director has been amazing, but not surprising! Her passion for creating an inclusive and supportive environment has made a huge impact on our community. Sophie is proof that with determination and heart, anything is possible – and we couldn’t be prouder to have her leading our team.”
Sophie’s advice to young girls looking to follow in her footsteps? “My biggest piece of advice would be: don’t be afraid to try. I never imagined myself learning how to code, but I jumped in and figured it out along the way. If you enjoy problem-solving or are good at maths, that’s already half the battle won. Coding is all about logic and thinking creatively, and girls are naturally great problem-solvers. Just give it a go – you might surprise yourself and, no matter what, you’ll come away having learned something new.”
To learn more about Code Ninjas, visit www.codeninjas.co.uk/chelmsford-ess-uk
