In the heart of Didcot, a vibrant community initiative is taking shape at the local library, where children are being introduced to the exciting world of computer science through hands-on workshops. These sessions, run during school holidays, are part of a broader effort by Digit, a charity dedicated to promoting Computer Science education in schools. The workshops focus on using micro:bits, small programmable devices that make learning coding fun and accessible for young learners.

The workshops have been a resounding success, thanks in large part to the enthusiastic involvement of community members who volunteer their time and expertise. One such volunteer is The Abbey’s very own Mr Baker. Following on from his efforts last year (Gateway 22/9/23) he has been instrumental in bringing these sessions to life. “I absolutely love running these workshops,” Mr Baker said. “Engaging with the community and seeing the children’s faces light up when they create something new is incredibly rewarding.”

Each workshop is designed to be both educational and enjoyable. Children are introduced to the basics of coding and electronics through interactive projects that they can complete using micro:bits. These projects are linked to the UN sustainable development goals featuring projects on building early warning systems for extreme weather, and systems to water plants automatically. The hands-on nature of the workshops ensures that children are not just passive learners but active participants in their education.

The response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive. Parents appreciate the opportunity for their children to engage in productive and educational activities during the holidays, while the children themselves are eager to return for more sessions. “It’s amazing to see how quickly they pick up new concepts and start experimenting on their own,” Mr Baker notes. “Their creativity and enthusiasm are truly inspiring.”

The next Micro:bit event at Didcot library is on 30 October 2024.