Digimakers are offering free hands on workshops in comp
uting and electronics for under 18s as part of Digital Bristol Week’s Maker Day, Saturday 7 February.
The initiative run by University of Bristol’s Faculty of Engineering along with volunteers from The Chartered Institute for IT (BCS) has seen over 3,000 people from around the region attend previous events, which took place at, At-Bristol.
Youngsters will be shown more ways to have fun with technology – whether it’s programming software, hacking hardware, creating a game or building a web app.
The ‘Introduction to building web applications’ workshop, run by local web development agency Simpleweb, is perfect for anyone interested in learning more about making websites and applications and a great way to prepare for Young rewired State- Festival of Code event which will take place in the summer, hosted by the University of Bristol.
“Our events aim to encourage under 18s to get creative with computers and electronics through hands-on activities taught by experts”
Mike Bartley, Chair of BCS and LEP High Tech Sector Group said: “For far too long Computing has been equated with IT which turns a lot of children away. Our events aim to encourage under 18s to get creative with computers and electronics through hands-on activities taught by experts, something that many schools are currently unable to offer”
“But as Chair of local LEP High Tech Sector Group and the BCS I have another objective here. The area has a huge number of local companies crying out for these skills and they pay good salaries.
“We need to create a pipeline of talent for both our current employers and for those looking to locate here. Our own local Silicon Valley or Silicon Gorge if you will!”
Inspiring young developers
Professor Andrew Nix, Dean of Faculty of Engineering, added: “The government’s proposed changes to the computer science curriculum shows the national importance of the skills shortage but there is still much work to be done to inspire young people and engage teachers.
“Informal events, like the DigiMakers, play an important role in educating and inspiring children in subjects such as electronics, computer science, digital media and engineering.
“With around 300 parents, children and teachers attending each event, it is clear there is a huge demand for this type of activity. With funding from our sponsors the university is very proud that together, we are providing such a fantastic resource for the regions young people and teachers.”
The next Digimaker events will take place At-Bristol Saturday 28 February and Saturday 13 June and twilight sessions for teenagers will be launched later this year. To book onto any of the workshops, being run between 10am and 4pm, see the Eventbrite website.
You can see more about Digimakers and their upcoming workshops and events on the Digimakers’ Facebook page or by following them on Twitter: @digi_makers. Click here to see the other events that are part of Digital Bristol Week.
