Bringing computing to life in the primary school classroom with this hands-on online teacher training workshop exploring physical computing.

Physical computing is an exciting way to teach computing through real-world interaction, enabling pupils to programme devices that can sense, respond to, and interact with their surroundings. Moving beyond screen-only activities, it combines programming, problem-solving, creativity, and engineering in a highly engaging and accessible format.

This session will introduce teachers to the Crumble Controller, a programmable microcontroller that supports learning in primary and lower-secondary school.

Date: Thursday 24th September / Thursday 10th December

Time: 16:00 – 17:30

Cost: Free

Location: Online

This 90-minute teacher training session will show how Crumbles can be used in the classroom to encourage children to build and code their own inventions. Participants will take part in practical examples and guided activities, using their own Crumble controller set provided for free to each attendee.

Due to the interactive nature of this teacher training session and the kit provided, we have only 14 spaces available.

Whether you are new to physical computing or looking to build confidence before introducing it in the classroom, the workshop will provide practical guidance, classroom-ready ideas, and opportunities to ask questions in a supportive environment.

This workshop is ideal for primary and lower-secondary school teachers.

What to expect:

• Interactive, hands-on training session
• An introduction to physical computing and the Crumble Controller
• Opportunities to develop programming knowledge and confidence
• Curriculum-linked activities suitable for primary to lower-secondary, supported by a teacher resource pack
• Practical ideas for engaging pupils with computing through hands-on learning

Each participating teacher will receive a free Crumble starter pack of equipment in addition to a copy of the STFC Physical Computing in Schools teacher resource pack, which includes lesson plans and step-by-step activity guide.

This workshop is organised by the Science and Technology Facilities Council Rutherford Appleton Laboratory.