Prodigy Learning, an Ireland-based global education technology company, has won the prestigious EdTech Awards 2025 Cool Tool Award in the category of Coding, Computer Science, and Engineering Solution for its innovative "Coding in Minecraft" credential program. The EdTech Awards, now in their 15th year, are the world's largest recognition program for education technology, celebrating the most impactful and cutting-edge edtech solutions globally. The "Coding in Minecraft" program stands out for its unique approach to computer science education, leveraging the immensely popular video game Minecraft. It turns the game into a powerful tool for both teaching and assessing coding skills. Students engage in game-based learning, tackling standards-aligned curriculum that rewards them with industry-recognized credentials, thereby preparing them for the AI-driven future. The Winning Product and Its Impact The program was selected from a global pool of entries and evaluated based on several criteria, including pedagogical effectiveness, clarity, value, and potential impact. Victor Rivero, Editor-in-Chief of EdTech Digest, which oversees the EdTech Awards, praised the finalists and winners for their visionary approach to education technology. He emphasized that these innovators are not simply reacting to the future but actively shaping it, making education more inclusive, accessible, and effective. Andrew Flood, CEO of Prodigy Learning, expressed his pride in receiving the award. He highlighted the collaboration with Minecraft Education, noting that the partnership empowers educators with minimal computer science experience to deliver high-quality, engaging lessons. Flood emphasized the importance of preparing students for the evolving job market, stating that the program helps build essential skills for the workforce of tomorrow. How the Program Works "Coding in Minecraft" immerses young learners in a virtual environment where they can apply coding concepts and problem-solving techniques in real-time. The curriculum is designed to be user-friendly, allowing teachers to integrate it seamlessly into their existing lesson plans. The program's success has paved the way for two additional products: "Cyber in Minecraft," launched in October 2024, which focuses on cybersecurity education, and "AI Ready Skills," launched in January 2025, which covers core AI topics. These products, along with "Coding in Minecraft," are available through Microsoft and various channel resellers worldwide, in addition to Prodigy Learning's own distribution channels. They represent a comprehensive suite of tools aimed at equipping students with future-ready skills. Broader Initiatives and Partnerships Prodigy Learning's partnership with Minecraft Education is part of a broader effort to enhance education through technology. Minecraft Education, known for its game-based learning platform, is used by millions of educators and students in 115 countries. The platform fosters problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking, complemented by standards-aligned STEM curricula and fun challenges. Notable collaborations include projects with entities such as BBC Earth, the Nobel Peace Center, NASA, UNESCO, World Wildlife Federation, and Code.org. Industry Recognition and Company Profile The EdTech Awards have a history of recognizing some of the most influential names in the education technology sector, including companies like Adobe, Blackboard, Discovery Education, and SMART Technologies. Winning this award validates Prodigy Learning's commitment to innovation and quality in educational technology. The company offers a range of online platforms designed to help learners develop and prove their skills, from educational skills assessments to job-ready digital credentials. The Future of EdTech Industry insiders view this win as a significant milestone, highlighting the growing acceptance and effectiveness of game-based learning in computer science education. They predict that programs like "Coding in Minecraft" will continue to gain traction, transforming how educators teach and students learn complex subjects. The combination of engaging content and practical, real-world applications makes these solutions particularly appealing in a rapidly changing technological landscape. The accolade reinforces Prodigy Learning's position as a leader in the edtech space, driving forward the mission to create more inclusive and effective educational experiences. With continued support from partners like Minecraft Education and Microsoft, the company is poised to expand its reach and impact, preparing a new generation of learners for success in an increasingly tech-driven world.