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Primary Electronics - Build a Bot

A teacher-led, UKESF supported activity where pupils design, build, code and test their own cardboard robots. The project can be run in the classroom at your own pace.

Primary Electronics - Build a Bot

UKESF are offering a free primary electronics programme for UK state schools teachers - no prior electronics or STEM experience is needed.

Build a Bot comprises 5 teacher-led sessions for 9-11 year olds, complemented by a 30-minute online workshop from the UKESF. Pupils will design, build, code and test their own cardboard robots.

The live, interactive online session led by the UKESF team will introduce the activity to teachers and their pupils, and is a great way to kick off the activity.

Equipment will be posted to you, free of charge, giving you everything you need to run the project with your class at your own pace.

You will receive comprehensive presentation materials, taking you through the activities step-by-step. Each activity is simple and hands-on, designed for primary pupils.

Ongoing support from the expert team at UKESF is available via email or call.

Why take part:

• A simple, low-prep way to deliver the Electricity curriculum
• Helps pupils understand how real-world electronic systems work
• Builds confidence, creativity, and problem-solving skills
• Tried and tested with primary schools across the UK
• Opportunity to share and celebrate pupils’ work

Learning outcomes

  • Improve engagement, interest or enjoyment in STEM subjects

  • Improve awareness and aspirations for STEM-related study and careers

  • Challenge stereotypes by showing the diversity of disciplines, people and skills involved in engineering

Topics

  • Electricity

Working scientifically

Whichever curriculum your school follows, pupils should have the opportunity to carry out practical investigations in science that help them to develop their scientific skills. This experience builds the following enquiry skills:

  • Asking questions
  • Observing and measuring
  • Interpreting and communicating results
  • Evaluating

Essential skills

The essential skills every young person needs to succeed in education and their future career. Find out more at the Skills Builder Partnership. This experience builds the following skills:

  • Problem solving - Finding solutions to challenges

  • Teamwork - Working cooperatively with others to achieve a shared goal

Good for a career in...

  • Electronics
What the teachers say

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Workshop

EcoCode with the micro:bit

Workshops that empower students to explore sustainable computing. Using the micro:bit, participants design creative, climate-focused tech solutions through the lens of the latest research into sustainability.

  • Ages 5 to 11
  • In-school
  • 1 to 2 hours
  • Cost may apply Bursaries available

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