A computer coding scheme will be launched across the island as part of a new initiative by the Ministry of Education.

Lingo STEM Coding Kit lessons will be introduced at senior schools as part of an effort to improve STEM — science, technology, engineering and maths — education after a successful pilot programme.

A spokeswoman for the ministry said 20 dual enrolment students used Lingo’s In the Driver’s Seat STEM coding kit to learn hardware and software principles by building a back-up sensor for a driverless car.

She added: “The pilot worked so well that it has provoked planning to provide every senior student on the island with the In the Driver’s Seat lesson and the initial student group with additional Lingo lessons including variables, loops and conditions.”

Lingo is used by more than 4,000 students in 11 countries including the US.

Cairo Simmons, a 17-year-old participant in the pilot, said: “Due to my prior knowledge of computer hardware and programming, I felt it was very easy for me to assemble and programme this sensor.

“Upon the completion of its assembly, my interest grew in how I can use this technology to further build other modifications of vehicles.

“What I found especially interesting is how computers are becoming smaller and smaller today and how the world is pushing for electrical cars, thus this technology will be more useful.”

Diallo Rabain, the Minister of Education, added: “The STEM coding kit programme is an outstanding opportunity for our young people to engage directly with new-generation technology.

“This initiative will see our high school students benefiting from international expertise, and grounded with a strong foundation in coding systems that will make them competitive in various STEM industries.”

Aisha Bowe, Lingo founder, said: “It is our honour to be part of Bermuda’s important initiative to provide their students with a scalable, sustainable and engaging STEM solution that not only builds confidence but also has the potential to inspire a new generation of engineers, scientists and mathematicians.

“Our team continues to build new content to keep young minds interested in STEM and applying their learnings to contributing to a bright future.”