Everyone says that tech is the future. That tomorrow’s most sought-after jobs haven’t even been invented yet. That digital fluency is now just as important as literacy and numeracy. But while children are often expected to be digital natives, many teachers are still left feeling like they’re trying to decode a second language – without a translator.

It’s no surprise. With limited time, curriculum pressures and a fast-changing tech landscape, it’s a big ask for educators to confidently teach coding without the right support. That’s why Edward Kim, VP of Education at Code Ninjas, has pulled together five of the best free coding courses and resources designed specifically for primary and secondary teachers.

Whether you’re completely new to coding or looking to enhance your classroom delivery, these resources are here to help.

1. Code for Life
Developed by Ocado Technology, Code for Life offers two key platforms: ‘Rapid Router’, which uses Blockly and Python to teach coding through fun game-based learning, and ‘Python Den’, which provides deeper learning pathways. Teachers benefit from structured lesson plans and a dashboard to monitor pupil progress.

Best for: KS1-KS3, complete beginners to intermediate.

2. FutureLearn
This free CPD course helps non-specialist teachers understand and deliver programming lessons using Scratch and unplugged activities. It introduces core computing concepts and shows how to integrate them across the curriculum in engaging, age-appropriate ways.

Best for: Primary teachers with little or no coding experience.

3. Rodocodo
Rodocodo provides fun, flexible classroom tools, including printable resources, posters and games to teach logic and computational thinking. Their ‘Code Hour’ activity is a self-contained, one-hour introduction to coding, complete with teacher notes and reward certificates.

Best for: KS1-KS2, plug-and-play classroom activities.

4. National Centre for Computing Education (NCCE)
Funded by the Department for Education, the NCCE offers an extensive bank of free teaching resources, schemes of work and CPD training for both primary and secondary educators. Delivered through regional hubs, it supports teachers with everything from curriculum planning to live workshops.

Best for: Teachers seeking formal CPD and long-term classroom integration.

5. Mission Encodeable
Designed by sixth-formers, this free platform provides tutorials for students and educators alike. With no login or registration required, it’s easy to set up classroom challenges, assign homework tasks or explore new programming languages – all in a beginner-friendly format.

Best for: KS3-KS5, flexible use for homework or in-class tasks.

The future doesn’t just rely on students understanding tech – it depends on teachers being equipped to lead the way. And while these free resources offer a brilliant place to start, you don’t have to go it alone.

That’s where Code Ninjas can help. Across the UK, Code Ninjas centres are already partnering with schools to bring coding to life through in-school workshops, enrichment sessions and collaborative clubs. Their trained instructors complement existing lessons with engaging, age-appropriate content that helps pupils build real-world digital skills – so teachers can focus on what they do best, without needing to master it all themselves.

To find out more about working with your local Code Ninjas centre, visit www.codeninjas.co.uk