LEGO Robotics help to bridge Worcester’s digital skills divide

Over 60 young people and their families had fun whilst learning essential ‘coding’ skills for free, at a series of LEGO Robotic workshops which took place at Ronkswood, Horizon and Warndon Community Centres over the Autumn half term holiday.

The events, which were funded by Worcester City Council, introduced 7 to 15-year-olds to the art of coding.  Further community-based sessions are planned as part of Worcester’s Town Investment Plan, which aims to help residents develop sought-after skills needed for some better paid jobs.

The event was also supported by the Worcester-based TDM Training Academy, a leading tech and digital transformation training provider.  Staff offered advice to young people and families about apprenticeships and training to gain digital qualifications.

“The pandemic has accelerated the need for more of us to improve our digital skills.  We want to ensure that every child in Worcester can access Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths training to help boost their employability for the future,” said Cllr Lucy Hodgson, Chair of the City Council’s Place and Economic Development Committee.

“Working with the Worcester Community Trust and other partners, we aim to develop a year-round programme of coding and Raspberry Pi after school clubs and holiday activities.”  

“The events were a great success; many attendees asked when we are going to do this again. They had come from across the City, showing that there is real demand for these types of activities,” said Helen Davis, new Director of Skills and Training at Worcester Community Trust.

Mo Follis, from STEM Works said – "Taking part in our robotics workshops helps the children develop excellent skills which are easily transferrable to real life, including problem solving, communication and resilience. All of these are essential attributes for a career in the STEM sector".