Computer Science Outreach Opportunities
Our Outreach Programme is currently focused on raising the profile of Computer Science across Norfolk, challenging gender stereotypes and encouraging an inclusive learning environment that empowers students to envision a future in computing.
Read below for more information on the activities we have on offer. If you would like to find out more about our Computer Science Outreach Opportunities, please email Dr Trudy Coleman, trudycoleman@inspirationtrust.org.
Current Opportunities
Astro-Pi Mission Zero
Dr Trudy Coleman and three Year 12 students have been running one and a half hour workshops for Year 3 students who would write a simple programme to take a reading from the colour and luminosity sensor on an Astro-Pi computer on board the International Space Station, and use it to set the background colour in a personalised image for the astronauts to see as they go about their daily tasks. Working in pairs, students receive a certificate that shows the location of the ISS when their programme is run.
The workshop has already successfully taken place at Charles Darwin Academy and Norwich Primary Academy so far this academic year.
Ri Computer Science Masterclasses
Ri Masterclasses are extra-curricular workshops in computer science for students in Y5/Y6. They nurture students’ curiosity and inspire them?to continue STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) engagement into the future. Students are helped to realise that STEM subjects are for everyone, inspiring future science careers. The four sessions will have a focus on physical computing; which has been shown to improve student engagement and attitudes towards computer science.
Previous Events
Social Hackathon - June 2023
On Monday 26th June, local primary schools attended The Hewett Academy to take part in our Social Hackathon. Pupils were tasked with designing and creating solutions to social issues such as rising energy costs, affordable housing, water conservation and droughts. Each school entered two groups and each had the help of current or alumni Computing students from Sir Isaac Newton to help ‘hack’ their social issue.
Students had to develop a prototype to their proposed solution and were able to use Lego Mindstorm Robots, micro:bits and a range of electronics kits. Pupils were also given the chance to engage in a careers treasure hunt, finding out information from Norfolk Constabulary, the University of East Anglia and staff and our students. They learnt about the types of careers computer science can lead to, as well as an idea of what path they could take to gain more information about computer science and STEM subjects.
Attending pupils were also given advice and guidance through keynote speeches. Dr Oli Buckley, UEA, opened the day with a fascinating talk about cybersecurity and John Greenwood, Norfolk Police, closed with a fun and informative talk on cyber crime.
At the end of the day, there were awards from nor(DEV), the University of East Anglia and Inspiration Trust for different elements of the solutions provided including Innovation, Creativity and Teamwork. Diamond Academy came away with the awards for Innovation and Teamwork with The Free School Norwich winning the UEA Creativity award.
Internal Opporunities
Insight Experience Event @ BT Adastral Park
The Insight Experience took place on 27th November, and consisted of a welcome presentation, Adastral Park and Showcase tour and Early Careers Panel, at which up to two apprentices and two graduates spoke about their experiences. A group of Year 12 and Year 13 students from Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form attended the half-day event, and partook in further tech talks and lab visits with a focus on BT, Adastral Park, and future careers.
Nor:Dev(Con)
On 16th February at Kings Conference Centre in Norwich, ten students from Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form will attend two days of talks on a wide variety of subjects including data science, game development, startups, and much more. Students will gather in a welcoming and inclusive environment to learn, discuss and network with the best of East Anglia's tech scene, joined by a group of international conference veterans.
Computer Science Speed Networking Event
Our second annual speed networking event is due to take place later this year on Tuesday 9th July. Join us at Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form for the opportunity to meet other industry professionals and discuss future STEM career opportunities with current Year 12 Computer Science students.