PM to launch National Computer Clubhouse Network

PM to launch National Computer Clubhouse Network in Hamilton

15 March 2010

Prime Minister John Key will officially launch New Zealand’s Computer Clubhouse brand in Hamilton on Friday, 19 March.

The Enderley Computer Clubhouse has been chosen as the site for the national launch, and state-of-the-art technology will see Mr Key linked up on a live telecast to other centres in New Zealand, Vancouver and Boston.

The Enderley Computer Clubhouse, on Tennyson Rd, has been up and running since 8 February.

It is one of four new centres around the country, and there are plans for a further six new sites to open over the next three years.

Computer Clubhouse is an international technology initiative for young people aged 10-18. The Enderley Clubhouse is open Monday to Friday from 4pm to 8pm, and is designed as a safe and creative after-school learning environment. The Clubhouse is a colourful environment with high tech ICT equipment including ten PC workstations, six laptops, two media workstations, video and digital cameras and a fully equipped music studio.

The programme is guided by research which shows that young people learn most effectively when they are engaged in designing projects, working in teams, and managing projects from beginning to end.

Enderley Computer Clubhouse is run by Hamilton City Council’s Youth Development team.

Councillor Daphne Bell, who chairs Council’s Community and Environment Committee, is delighted that Hamilton has picked up the Computer Clubhouse concept. “Many young Hamilton people have new learning opportunities and access to equipment they never would have had before."

Computer Clubhouse co-ordinator Jamie McCormack says helping young people is hugely rewarding. “The resources are great and seeing the young people run with what we’ve talked about, and then make it into something great, makes me feel like I’ve really made a difference."

ENDS