DIY robotics

This robotics workshop is different from most: designed for more-able children, the aim is to understand how individual electronic components work, and combine them to explore and invent.

We start with the fundamentals of electrical circuits, going beyond what they will have learned in KS2. Then we introduce a range of exciting components, including numerous sensors, motors (regular and servo types), switches and sounders. This broad variety of items will spark their imagination, free of the limitations of proprietary ready-made "brick" products.

As an option, pupils can take home and keep a kit of components plus a multimeter (for taking measurements in electronic circuits). There is an additional charge for the kit.

The brains

To get the best out of these components, we learn about using a micro-controller to measure sensor input, and control the outputs according to a program.

The controller could be an Arduino or micro:bit, both of which have simple programming languages that will allow the children to develop their own simple systems. The use of 'raw' components allows the children to incorporate them into imaginative and creative designs of their own.