A converted bus which will offer schoolchildren the chance to develop their computer skills has been delivered to the Island by the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company.

The Code Club bus was the former Manx Gas Conversion Bus, which Manx Gas donated to the project, and the bus will be operated by the Manx ICT Association (MICTA) and the Code Club, in conjunction with the DEC.

It has been fitted with state-of-the-art computer and project equipment and will be unveiled at a launch at The Sound on September 2nd.

Kurt Roosen, CEO of MICTA, said: ‘The bus will visit schools around the Island, providing a vital resource in helping schools deliver the ICT curriculum. On behalf of MICTA and the Code Club, I’d like to thank the Steam Packet Company for its support in helping us bring this project to fruition.’

The Isle of Man Code Club provides a focal point for people of all ages to develop coding skills, share their knowledge and experience and teach others how to utilise today’s technology.

MICTA was created in 2010 and has acted as the trade association for ICT companies in the Isle of Man, and is now expanding its remit to develop all aspects of the ICT sector.

Isle of Man Steam Packet Company Chief Executive Mark Woodward said: ‘The Code Club Bus is a great initiative, offering children a superb facility in which to develop their ICT skills. We were delighted to help assist in bringing the bus from the UK and look forward to seeing it in action around our schools.’

Photo - Owen Cutajar from the Code Club with Isle of Man Steam Packet Company Marketing and Online Manager Renee Caley.