What is it?
Hosting coding workshops or tutoring sessions for younger children is a fantastic way for teens to raise money while sharing valuable tech skills. It works well because many parents are keen for their children to learn coding early, and as a teenager, you can relate well to younger students, making the sessions engaging and fun.
Why does it work?
Parents are willing to pay for quality, personalised instruction that helps their kids develop a sought-after skill. Your position as a relatable role model and your ability to break down complex concepts into simple steps builds trust and encourages ongoing bookings, creating a steady income stream.
Step-by-step plan
1
Assess your coding skills and choose the language or platform you feel confident teaching. Scratch is excellent for younger kids, while Python suits slightly older beginners.
2
Develop simple, engaging lesson plans focusing on one concept per session (e.g., creating animations in Scratch or writing basic Python commands). Keep sessions around 45-60 minutes to maintain attention.
3
Decide whether you will teach in-person or online. For in-person sessions, ensure you have a safe, quiet space with necessary equipment. For online, set up a Zoom or Google Meet account.
4
Create a clear pricing structure, such as £15-£25 per hour depending on the complexity and group size. Consider offering discounts for block bookings or sibling groups.
5
Advertise your tutoring sessions locally (schools, community centres) and online (social media, local Facebook groups). Highlight your experience, your enthusiasm for coding, and the benefits for kids.
6
Prepare all your teaching materials ahead of each session and have backup activities to keep children engaged if they finish early.
7
Conduct the sessions with patience and enthusiasm, encouraging questions and celebrating progress to build confidence.
8
Request feedback from parents and students to improve your sessions and ask for testimonials to boost your credibility.
9
Keep a schedule and track your earnings carefully, setting goals to motivate yourself as you progress toward your fundraising target.
Realistic earnings
Most teenagers can expect to earn between £15 and £25 per hour, depending on their expertise and location. With regular bookings, earning £200-£400 per month over a few months is achievable, helping you reach your £1,000-£5,000 fundraising goal.
Top tips
✅ Start with small groups or even one-on-one sessions to build confidence and testimonials.
✅ Use free online resources and games to make lessons fun and interactive without needing expensive software.
✅ Be patient and flexible – kids learn at different paces, so adapt your teaching accordingly.
✅ Offer a free taster session to attract new clients and showcase your teaching style.
Common mistakes to avoid
⚠️ Trying to teach content that's too advanced for your students, which can lead to frustration.
⚠️ Not having a clear lesson plan, causing sessions to feel unstructured and lose attention.
⚠️ Setting prices too high or too low without researching local rates, which can deter clients or undervalue your time.