Half Term BBC Micro inspires STEAM Family session In Memory of Paul Vernon
This event is being held in the memory of Paul Vernon.
Paul Vernon was a STEM ambassador for most of his life. He was passionate about introducing and encouraging interests in technology, engineering and sciences, particularly to younger audiences. He was a mentor, teacher and loved sharing his knowledge both of programming and of "retro" technology. Sadly, we lost Paul to Cancer in 2022, but we hope to build on his legacy in his memory, and continue to encourage, support and build upon young peoples interest in STEM topics.
Our event is made up of STEAM activities for the whole family throughout the day, whilst giving the attendees the opportunity to explore the whole museum. Our activities range from creative coding to spectacular sculpting, with something for everyone of all ages and prizes to be won!
Here at the National Museum of Computing we are lucky to have the opportunity to work with a small independent business to produce a Build-your-own 8-bit computer. This uses a breadboard (no soldering required!) making the activity accessible to even younger learners. In an age where technology is increasingly inaccessible, we hope to honour computer producers of the 80’s, to make curriculum content visible in this hands-on session. Not only will learners have the opportunity to explore the inner workings of 8-bit computers, they will gain an understanding of programming in BBC Basic through applying original activities developed for the BBC Micro.
Tickets also give attendees the opportunity to explore the whole museum from 10:30-17:00, we have a variety of digital trails and hands on experiences to support learning and engagement for the whole family.
Free session throughout the day:
11:00-12:30 The BBC Micro and BBC Micro:Bit programming Workshop in the BBC Classroom. - Sponsored Microbits from The Pihut
13:00-14:30 The BBC Micro and BBC Micro:Bit programming Workshop in the BBC Classroom.
This workshop involves a variety of modern and 80s programming, with a original BBC Micro or a BBC Micro:Bit. Or you can have a go at building your own 8-bit computer! - Funded By Jess white & Microsoft MVP
13:00-14:30 The Modelling Workshop in the Meeting Room. Funded By Jess white & Microsoft MVP
Put the Art into STEM with our exciting programme of tech-related arts and crafts! Learners will build replicas of their favourite historic machines using non-toxic air-dry foam modelling clay and illustrate pages from the original BBC programming manuals for inclusion in our own collaborative production
15:45-16:30 The Biscuit Decorating Workshop in the Meeting Room.- Funded By Jess white & Microsoft MVP
In the tastiest workshop TNMOC have ever seen, participants will be decorating (and eating) biscuits to the theme of 1980s computers!
