STEM grant creates opportunities for Crumble Coding

Buggies controlled through the magic of code were weaving their way around a classroom in a science session made possible with a £500 grant.

The Royal Institution awarded Bradford College the funding under its Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) enrichment and enhancement grant scheme.

l-r: Philip Nsengimana, Anees Ahmed, Dom Surry, Steven Clay, Caleb Singh, Liz Surry

An introduction to Crumble Coding

The money was used for a Crumble Coding class. This class gave an introduction into programming for learners studying for the OCR Level 3 Cambridge Technical Diploma in IT.

The College’s Projects Team successfully bid for the funding. They then worked with curriculum staff to choose an activity that would best support them.

Networking and systems support lecturer Steven Clay said: “We knew that this STEM-based activity was something the students would enjoy.”

Collaboration is key

The day was led by Dom and Liz Surry, a husband and wife team who run Skill Supply. Together, they deliver STEM workshops for people of all ages. The sessions then help to develop team and leadership skills in a fun and interesting way.

During the day, the students worked together on a series of mini-projects. They also connected block-based coding systems to motors, sensors and lights to create miniature buggies that were able to navigate obstacle courses.

Steve said: “They have totally engaged with the activity, which has given them a strong idea of what they will be doing on future units within their course.”

Building foundation for coding skills

The activity has helped students to understand basic programming concepts. It will later provide the baseline for the development of the coding skills they will require for the second year of their course.

Furthermore, the activity required learners to work collaboratively to succeed. This gave them a realistic taste of how developers work, where team work, good communication and problem solving are essential.

About the Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma in IT

The Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma in IT course allows students to gain an insight into the development of a range of applications across platforms and sectors. On this course, students can gain the right combination of knowledge, understanding and skills required for the 21st century. It also enables them to demonstrate the skills of design, building, testing and implementation of applications.

Find out more about the course on our website.

The Royal Institution 2020 STEM E&E grant scheme

Grants of up to £500 are offered for schools to experience an activity selected from the STEM Directory. This scheme is generously supported by the Clothworkers’ Foundation and the L.G. Harris Trust.

Find out more at https://www.rigb.org/

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