The innovative LEGO robotics outreach programme will provide an introduction to computer programming to the pupils. Chemistry teacher Mrs Emily Brick who will be leading the courses is thrilled that so many children will be taking part, saying “we are all incredibly excited about the launch of this robotics course. The aim is to provide these children with an exciting introduction to computers as they prepare to move into Year 7 and this enables us to work closely with local schools and develop computing elements that are now formally included in the National Curriculum at Key Stage 3.”

For one afternoon a week, over a period of six weeks, children will analyse the computer programming involved in making a robot before building and programming a robot of their own choice. They then have the chance to analyse each other’s work and make design improvements before presenting their new robots to the community. Parents, governors, STEM ambassadors and sponsors will be invited to the School to see the robots.

Along with children from its own Prep school, Mrs Brick is looking forward to welcoming Year 6 children from other local schools. The first Year 6 pupils from Greenfields School are already half way through their course and thoroughly enjoying it.

Pupil Adam Williams explained: “Lots of people do Lego, but not like this – this is Mindstorm! We started a practise robot – it was a puppy; everyone was really excited, especially me. Now Tom and I have to get the head on and get the code imported to the dog to make it work. We have even more to do after this like a conveyor belt and a crane!”