Our libraries have introduced hands-on LEGO® robotics and coding workshops for children.
The initiative, funded through the Library Improvement Fund from Arts Council England, brings LEGO® robotics and coding experiences to libraries in Exeter, Paignton, Newton Abbot, and Barnstaple.
It’s all part part of the ‘Devon Digital Creator’ project, investing in Science, Technology, Engineering & Maths (STEM) with the aim of boosting the digital skills and creativity of Devon’s children and young people through engaging and accessible activities.
LEGO® robotics are sets that combine building blocks with programmable electronic components, allowing anyone age 6+ to build whatever they want and then code it to perform functions.
It provides children a route in to STEM through play, socialisation and teamwork.
Over the past year, hundreds have taken part in the hands-on workshops.
One parent said, “The children have thoroughly enjoyed the LEGO experience. It was great to see them coding and cultivating a love of STEM. Thank you so much. Highly recommend!”
As a result of this success, Libraries Unlimited, who run Devon’s libraries on our behalf, has secured additional support, including LEGO® League kits from the Institute of Engineering and Technology, and further LEGO® sets through the Reading Agency’s Reading Sparks programme.
These resources will support ongoing coding clubs like CoderDojo Exmouth and enable summer activities tied in to library reading challenges.
Jacob Beasley, aged 10, attends the CoderDojo in Exmouth Library and he said:
“I think that Coderdojo is a very good way to learn about how to make creative games and explore different coding apps such as Unity and Roblox Studio or Scratch and LEGO Spike for people who like building robots.
“Today (Tuesday) me and my bud George created a robot which moves on wheels and it picks things up with a coded grabber and moves on coded wheels. We have been doing it for about two years.”
Councillor Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin, Devon County Council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for libraries, said:
“This initiative is brilliant. LEGO is a classic toy which has captured enjoyment through generations. These LEGO robotics projects will teach hands-on coding skills that I’m sure will spark an interest to learn more.
“Who knows what it could lead to, I bet even senior specialists in tech companies started small on projects like these when they were children, firing their imagination and creativity and helping spur them into the career paths they chose.
“It’s really worth keeping an eye on what’s going on in our local libraries, there are so many things for people of all ages; libraries mean so much more than books, they are inspiring educational and community hubs.”
Alex Kittow, Chief Executive, Libraries Unlimited, said:
“This funding and the initiatives we’ve delivered has made an incredible difference to libraries and communities across Devon and Torbay. It’s wonderful to have the opportunity to change people’s perception of what a library is and to develop our programme of STEM engagement and activities for children, families and adults alike. I’ve been inspired and humbled to see how the children’s confidence, skills, friendships and ability to play transforms over the course of a LEGO coding session.”