2Code: October's Mash of the Month

Each month we will be highlighting a #MashoftheMonth, this will focus on a tool or application within Purple Mash and how it can be used within the classroom to support learning across the curriculum. During the month, if you share how you have used #MashoftheMonth, you will then be entered into a draw to win a 2Simple Goody Bag!

The Mash of the Month for October is 2Code, the Purple Mash tool that introduces computer programming (coding) to children. It has three key components: free code, guided lessons and debug challenges.

What is 2Code?

2Code is Purple Mash's interactive, block-based coding tool that's designed to take children from their very first steps with programming to creating their own coded projects. With in-built lessons, step-by-step instructions and videos for students and teachers, challenges and solutions, 2Code helps make coding exciting for pupils and stress-free for teachers.

Key Features of 2Code

2Code is packed with features to make coding easy to teach and fun to learn. One fantastic benefit of 2Code is that it is included in a Purple Mash subscription so children only need one login, and all their work is saved to their Work Area. In-program features include:

• Drag-and-drop blocks perfect for beginner coders
• Different levels of the tool to ensure children do not become overwhelmed by too much on the screen
• Guided activities split into stages
• Step-by-step tutorials to guide children through new concepts
• Self-marking challenges to show progress
• Debug tool for children to get a deeper understanding of their code
• Real Code Mode so that children working at more advanced levels can see their code in JavaScript

How 2Code Supports the Computing Curriculum

2Code has been carefully designed to match the UK National Curriculum for Computing. The units build progressively, so pupils cover key concepts like sequencing, selection, variables, and repetition at the right stage for their age group. Teachers can feel confident they’re meeting statutory requirements without having to plan every lesson from scratch.

Coding in KS1

For younger learners, 2Code offers a gentle introduction with simple block coding and engaging characters. Children can create short animations, make characters move, and explore cause-and-effect - all while building the foundations for future programming skills.

Coding in KS2

As pupils progress through KS2, 2Code gradually introduces more advanced coding concepts. They’ll learn about variables, functions, and conditional statements before moving on to designing and coding their own games, stories, and simulations. This progression helps build confidence and independence in coding.

Children will be able to see their block code translated to JavaScript as well as complete debugging challenges and using Free Code to create their own projects.

Code with Confidence

Teachers can try out some of the 2Code activities with the Code with Confidence free pack. Inside the pack there's a wealth of resources, including:

• Interactive activities, plus teacher solutions
• Access to age-appropriate free code areas
• Front-of-class Powerpoint presentation
• Coding vocabulary posters
• Teacher explainer video all crafted to boost your confidence in teaching coding.

Live Lesson: Creative Coding with Free Code

This month, we are hosting a live lesson for children in Years 2-4, where they will learn to plan, design and code a scene using Free Code Chimp. It's a great way for teachers to dip their toe into coding as they can watch along and support their class.

Share your code with us

However you use 2Code, we can’t wait to see how you use our #MashoftheMonth this month. You can share examples via our X or Facebook pages with the #PMDLChallenge. All examples will be entered into our monthly draw to win a 2Simple goody bag!