Castlebellingham's The Code Lab named Business of the Month

The Code Lab has been named Louth County Council Cathaoirleach's Business of the Month for January.

The Castlebellingham STEM education company teaches kids and teenswith technology through engaging coding courses, electronics and robotics workshops and camps, and its innovative online learning platform for schools.

Founded by Joan McCann, an experienced IT professional and STEM educator, The Code Lab was born from her desire to make coding accessible, engaging and fun for children of all ages and backgrounds, while also being easy for parents and teachers to use.

Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, Cllr Seán Kelly said The Code Lab is empowering the next generation.

"Joan recognised a gap in the market and has used her experience, passion and creativity to create an exciting and forward-thinking business. The Code Lab is helping to build digital confidence and future ready skills among the next generation at a time when coding and digital education are more important than ever,” he said.

Ms McCann said she was incredibly honoured that The Code Lab was chosen for the award and praised the support from the Local Enterprise Office. 

"The support I’ve received from the Local Enterprise Office at every stage of my business growth, as well as from local partners, collaborators and schools, has been invaluable.

I’d especially like to thank Castletown Girls School, who partnered with me on the Online Schools Coding Programme and helped shape it from the very beginning, supporting students’ first steps in coding and STEM.

This award reinforces my mission to make STEM education accessible, engaging, and fun, and I’m excited to keep creating opportunities for young people across Louth and beyond to explore technology with confidence,” she said. 

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Ms McCann noticed a lack of local classes for kids and began running workshops herself, which later evolved into The Code Lab. She has since worked with primary schools and community organisations to create programmes that build digital literacy, problem-solving, creativity and confidence, supporting thousands of young learners.

Joan continues to lead The Code Lab’s growing range of schools and youth-focused STEM programmes from her base in Castlebellingham, with new projects being introduced for post-primary students.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.