Chigwell pupils take part in BBC’s coding programme

Pupils are getting creative with technology by using pocket-size computers to code quirky programmes.

Year 7 students at West Hatch High School, Chigwell, will be among one million pupils to test new codeable computers as part of an ambitious BBC education programme.

The 11 and 12-year-olds have now embarked on creating a variety of innovative programmes such as a Hogwarts sorting hat and a magic eight ball fortune teller.

The Micro:bit initiative, which was launched across the UK, encourages children to learn how to code in order to promote a new generation of digital makers.

Sara Trickey, head of computing and ICT at the High Road school, said: “These will help students develop a number of important skills for modern life in the world, including computational thinking and problem solving.

“We are very excited to be able to give this phenomenal opportunity to students and we are very much looking forward to seeing their completed projects in a few weeks time.”

In the 1980s, the BBC Micro scheme introduced many children to computing for the first time.

BBC director-general Tony Hall said: “Just as the BBC Micro introduced millions to personal computers 30 years ago, the BBC micro:bit can help equip a new generation with the digital skills they need to find jobs and help grow the UK economy.

“It’s the unique role of the BBC that allows us to bring together an unprecedented partnership to deliver such an ambitious project.”