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Duo Course: Machine Learning and AI with micro:bit – Wednesday 26th May 2027

   

This practical session will introduce teachers to the exciting new micro:bit CreateAI tools, demystifying Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning for the primary classroom. Participants will explore how to make AI physical by using real movement data to train a machine learning model. Teachers will gain the skills and confidence to help pupils test, improve, and code with their own AI models using a BBC micro:bit, building essential data and AI literacy.

Session Objectives:
• Introduce the core concepts of AI and machine learning using micro:bit CreateAI.
• Learn how to collect real movement data with a micro:bit to train a machine learning model.
• Explore how to code and test your trained AI model using MakeCode.
• Understand how data literacy forms the fundamental building block of AI literacy.
• Gain confidence in delivering engaging, hands-on AI and data handling lessons.

Date: Wednesday 26th May 2027
Time: 16:00-17:30

THIS WILL BE A FACE TO FACE TRAINING COURSE

Expected impact on schools – Participants will:
• Gain practical experience using micro:bit CreateAI and MakeCode in the classroom.
• Be able to confidently introduce AI and machine learning concepts to pupils.
• Access high-quality online resources, including the CreateAI user guide and taster lessons, to support lesson delivery.
• Develop inspiring lesson ideas linked to the computing and science curriculums.

Helpful Link: micro:bit and AI Resources (https://microbit.org/ai/)

Who is this course for?
Primary teachers (especially KS2) and computing leads looking to build their confidence in teaching data literacy and introducing Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning using physical computing.

Charge:
This course is part of the CPD programme for schools in the ICT in Schools Service Offer and is Free of Charge to those schools. For all other schools, the charge is £40.00 + VAT.

SPECIAL OFFER
After attending a DUO course each attendee will be eligible for a reduced cost half day, taught session using micro:bits either at The Word or in school.
• Staff attending the course must be present for the follow up session.
• The session will use 30 points of your allocation instead of 60.
• Staff can only attend the Duo Course once to benefit from the reduced points charge.

(Points can be purchased if required – please enquire for costings)

To register, please contact: [email protected]

Duo Course: Y4 Data Logging with Microbits – Wednesday 28th April 2027

                   

This practical session will introduce Year 4 teachers to the “Data Logging” unit from the Teach Computing curriculum, bringing it to life with BBC micro:bits. Participants will explore how sensors can be used to collect data over time and how this data can be visualised and analysed. Teachers will gain the skills and confidence to help pupils set up their own data logging experiments, bringing a hands-on, physical computing element to data handling.

Session Objectives

(Links directly to – Y4 Teach Computing – Data and Information: Data Logging):

  • Understand the concept of data logging and how it is used in the real world

  • Learn how to use BBC micro:bits and their built-in sensors to capture data

  • Explore how to support pupils in setting up experiments, collecting data, and analyzing their findings

  • Gain confidence in delivering the full Y4 Data Logging unit effectively

Date: Wednesday 28th April 2027
Time: 16:00-17:30

THIS WILL BE A FACE TO FACE TRAINING COURSE

Expected impact on schools – Participants will:

  • Gain practical experience using micro:bits for data logging in the classroom
  • Be able to confidently deliver the Y4 Data Logging unit
  • Access high-quality online resources to support lesson delivery
  • Develop inspiring lesson ideas linked to the computing and science curriculums

Who is this course for?
Primary teachers looking to build their confidence in teaching computing, particularly those delivering the Year 4 “Data Logging” unit from the Teach Computing framework.

Charge:
This course is part of the CPD programme for schools in the ICT in Schools Service Offer and is Free of Charge to those schools. For all other schools the charge is £40.00 + VAT.

SPECIAL OFFER
After attending a DUO course each attendee will be eligible for a reduced cost half day, taught session using Crumbles either at The Word or in school.
• The session will use 30 points of your allocation instead of 60.
• Staff can only attend the Duo Course once to benefit from the reduced points charge.
(Points can be purchased if required – please enquire for costings)

To register, please contact: [email protected]

Duo Course: Year 1 & 2: Programming – Introduction to Scratch Jr Thursday 22nd April 2027

This practical session leads into the world of block-based coding with ScratchJr, a visual programming language designed specifically for younger learners. The workshop focuses on the transition from floor robots to screen-based programming. Pupils will explore how to design their own backgrounds and edit their “sprites,” using code to tell a digital story or create a simple game. It is a brilliant way to develop problem-solving skills and persistence, as students “test and fix” their scripts to ensure their characters behave exactly as intended.

Session Objectives:
• Understand the key concepts of sequencing, cause, and effect in early programming
• Learn how to use ScratchJr to snap together color-coded blocks to make characters move, jump, dance, and sing
• Explore how to use “Start on Green Flag” and “Touch” triggers in a creative digital playground
• Gain confidence in delivering KS1 screen-based programming units effectively

Date: Thursday 22nd April 2027
Time: 16:00-17:30

THIS WILL BE FACE TO FACE TRAINING COURSE

Expected impact on schools – Participants will:
• Gain practical experience using ScratchJr on iPads in the classroom
• Be able to confidently manage the transition from floor robots to on-screen programming
• Access high-quality online resources to support lesson delivery
• Develop inspiring lesson ideas linked to the computing curriculum

Links to Teach Computing Units:

Year 1:  6. Programming B – Programming animations

Year 2:  6. Programming B – programming quizzes

Who is it for?
Primary teachers looking to build their confidence in teaching computing, particularly those delivering the Year 1 and Year 2 Programming units from the Teach Computing framework.

Charge:
This course is part of our Apple RTC CPD offer and is Free of Charge to schools.

SPECIAL OFFER
After attending a DUO course each attendee will be eligible for a reduced cost half day, taught session on ScratchJr either at The Word or in school.
• Staff attending the course must be present for the follow up session.
• The session will use 30 points of your allocation instead of 60.
• Staff can only attend the Duo Course once to benefit from the reduced points charge.

(Points can be purchased if required – please enquire for costings)

To register, please contact: [email protected]

 

 

Ai Champions Meeting – 19th May 2027 – 4pm to 5pm

 

Ai Champions Face to Face Meeting at The Word

Date: Wednesday 19th May 2027

Time: 16.00 – 17.00

To help navigate this new and fast moving AI landscape, we are creating a work group focused on the responsible and effective integration of AI into our curriculum and teaching practices.

With that in mind, we’re asking you to nominate an AI Champion from your staff to join this group.  Ofsted’s recent research on AI in education highlights the crucial role of AI champions and the importance of work groups in the successful adoption of artificial intelligence in schools and colleges.

The AI Champion should be a forward-thinking teacher who is enthusiastic about technology and keen to explore the potential of AI (It doesn’t have to be your computing lead). Their role will be to:

  • Be a part of a supportive network to help educators navigate the challenges and opportunities of AI.
  • Help identify potential risks and ethical considerations associated with AI use in schools.
  • Share best practices for integrating AI tools into teaching and learning.
  • Develop policy recommendations to guide the responsible adoption of AI across our schools.
Please fill in this form to nominate your AI Champion
Ai Champions can register to attend the meeting by emailing julia.small@ictinschools.org

Fablab – Learn How to Vinyl Cut & Print a T-Shirt

 

Fablab – Learn How to Vinyl Cut & Print a T-Shirt – Monday 7th December 2026 – 10am to 12 noon

£22.38 booking fee included

Please note this session is suitable for ages 16+.

This 2-hour FabLab session gives attendees a real hands-on look at modern maker technology.

Creators will use design software to sketch out their own custom graphics or text. From there, they will learn how to operate a digital vinyl cutting machine to precisely carve out their artwork, weed the design, and use a professional heat press to permanently transfer it onto a wearable T-shirt.

It’s a fantastic, high-quality introduction to graphic design and digital manufacturing where everyone walks away with a custom product they built from scratch!

T-shirt included. If you wish to bring your own t-shirt they must be 100% Cotton.

By booking tickets for this event, you are agreeing to our booking terms and conditions.

If you have a disability of any kind or you require special assistance, please contact us on 0191 427 1818.

 

 

Fablab – Learn How to 3D Print

 

Fablab 3D Print Session Suitable for ages 16+ – Monday 23rd November 2026

Booking Required
Cost – £22.38 booking fee included

Come along to this session in FabLab at The Word where you can learn how to 3D print!

You will be shown how to use 3D package, Tinkercad, and will learn the basics to design your very first 3D object.

Once trained, you will be able to attend drop-in sessions to create your own items. More advanced users have created model engines, steam locomotive trains, rockets, bike parts and so much more!

This workshop is for ages 16+

Materials are included. 

By booking tickets for this event, you are agreeing to our booking terms and conditions.

 

Fablab – Learn How to Laser Cut

 

Learn How to Laser Cut – Monday 30th November 2026 10am to 12 noon

Booking Required

Join us in the FabLab at The Word and discover the exciting possibilities of laser cutting! Designed for beginners and those looking to build their skills, this hands-on course will guide you through the basics of using a laser cutter to create precise, high-quality designs.

£22.38 per person (booking fee included). Suitable for ages 16+.

By booking tickets for this event, you are agreeing to our booking terms and conditions.

 

 

 

Duo Course –Y6 Learn to Teach Website Creation with Google Sites – Tuesday 9th February 2027

   

This practical session will introduce Year 6 teachers to the “Web Page Creation” unit from the Teach Computing curriculum. Participants will explore the principles of effective web design and learn how to use Google Sites to build, customise, and structure engaging multi-page websites. Teachers will gain the skills and confidence to help pupils plan, create, and evaluate their own digital content.

Course objectives (Links directly to – Y6 Teach Computing – Creating Media: Web Page Creation):
• Understand what makes an effective web page layout and design
• Learn how to use Google Sites to create and customise pages
• Incorporate text, images, hyperlinks and embedded content
• Develop skills in organising and structuring multi-page websites
• Explore how to support pupils in planning, building and evaluating websites

Date: Tuesday 9th February 2027
Time: 16:00-17:30

THIS WILL BE A FACE TO FACE TRAINING COURSE

Expected impact on schools – Participants will:
• Be confident in delivering the Teach Computing Y6 Web Page Creation unit
• Take away practical examples and ideas for using Google Sites with pupils
• Understand how website creation supports digital literacy and creativity

Helpful Link: Y6 Teach Computing Unit (https://teachcomputing.org/curriculum/key-stage-2/creating-media-web-page-creation)

Who is this course for?
Year 6 teachers delivering the Teach Computing unit: “Creating Media: Web Page Creation” or staff looking to develop skills using Google Sites with pupils.

Charge:
This course is part of the CPD programme for schools in the ICT in Schools Service Offer and is Free of Charge to those schools. For all other schools the charge is £40.00 + VAT.

SPECIAL OFFER
After attending a DUO course each attendee will be eligible for a reduced cost half day, taught session using Google Sites either at The Word or in school.
• The session will use 30 points of your allocation instead of 60.
• Staff can only attend the Duo Course once to benefit from the reduced points charge.
(Points can be purchased if required – please enquire for costings)

To register, please contact: [email protected]

Duo Course: Y6 – Programming Variables In Games with Pictoblox Wednesday 3rd February

     

This practical session explores the concept of variables in programming through game design in Pictoblox, adapting the Year 6 Teach Computing curriculum. First, participants will find out what variables are and relate them to real-world examples of values that can be set and changed. Then they will use variables to create a simulation of a scoreboard. Following the Use-Modify-Create model, teachers will learn how to help pupils experiment with variables in an existing project, modify them, and focus on design before creating and improving their own games.

Session Objectives (Links directly to – Y6 Teach Computing – Programming A: Variables in games):
• Understand what variables are and how to introduce them using real-world examples.
• Learn how to use Pictoblox to create a simulation of a scoreboard.
• Explore the Use-Modify-Create model to help pupils experiment with, modify, and code their own original games.
• Apply knowledge of variables and design to improve and share digital projects.
• Gain confidence in delivering the full Y6 Variables in games unit effectively.

Date: Wednesday 3rd February 2027
Time: 16:00-17:30

 

THIS WILL BE A FACE TO FACE TRAINING COURSE

Expected impact on schools – Participants will:
• Gain practical experience using Pictoblox for game design in the classroom.
• Be able to confidently deliver the Y6 Variables in games unit.
• Access high-quality online resources to support lesson delivery.
• Develop inspiring lesson ideas linked to the computing curriculum.

Helpful Link: Y6 Teach Computing Unit (https://teachcomputing.org/curriculum/key-stage-2/programming-a-variables-in-games)

Who is this course for?
Primary teachers looking to build their confidence in teaching computing, particularly those delivering the Year 6 “Variables in games” unit from the Teach Computing framework.

Charge:
This course is part of the CPD programme for schools in the ICT in Schools Service Offer and is Free of Charge to those schools. For all other schools, the charge is £40.00 + VAT.

SPECIAL OFFER
After attending a DUO course each attendee will be eligible for a reduced cost half day, taught session using Pictoblox either at The Word or in school.
• Staff attending the course must be present for the follow up session.
• The session will use 30 points of your allocation instead of 60.
• Staff can only attend the Duo Course once to benefit from the reduced points charge.

(Points can be purchased if required – please enquire for costings)

To register, please contact: [email protected]

 

Duo Course Y5/6 – Selection In Physical Computing Crumbles – Wednesday 17th March 2027

                        

Hands-on computing session using Crumble microcomputers. Perfect for young tech enthusiasts, this beginner-friendly workshop teaches children how to write code that controls the physical world.

In this interactive, fully-taught session, students will learn to connect and program colourful lights, motors, and sensors. It is the perfect way to build confidence in STEM, develop problem-solving skills, and have a blast experimenting with real hardware. No prior coding experience is necessary!

Session objectives (Links directly to – Y5 Teach Computing – Selection in physical computing):
• Learn how to get started with the Crumble controller.
• Use the Crumble software in an easy-to-use, Scratch-like environment.
• Find out how to set up the device.
• Learn to use input and output terminals effectively.
• Explore how to use the Crumble device with children in the classroom.

Date: Wednesday 27th March 2027
Time: 16:00-17:30

THIS WILL BE A FACE TO FACE TRAINING COURSE

Expected impact on schools – Participants will:
• Gain confidence in teaching using Crumble, and the free Teach Computing curriculum.
• Explore pedagogy and lesson activities that make effective use of physical computing.
• Plan to implement physical computing in the classroom.

Helpful Link: KS2 Teach Computing Curriculum Units (https://teachcomputing.org/curriculum/key-stage-2)

Who is this course for?
Teachers and subject leaders of computing looking to develop physical computing in KS2 to complement existing approaches. Particularly relevant to Year 5/6 teachers delivering: “Selection in Physical Computing” from Teach Computing.

Charge:
This course is part of the CPD programme for schools in the ICT in Schools Service Offer and is Free of Charge to those schools. For all other schools the charge is £40.00 + VAT.

SPECIAL OFFER
After attending a DUO course each attendee will be eligible for a reduced cost half day, taught session using Crumbles either at The Word or in school.
• The session will use 30 points of your allocation instead of 60.
• Staff can only attend the Duo Course once to benefit from the reduced points charge.
(Points can be purchased if required – please enquire for costings)

To register, please contact: [email protected]

DUO Course: Y4 Audio Production – Podcasting with BandLab – Tuesday 2nd March 2027

 

Join this hands-on short course and explore the creative potential of podcasting using BandLab on Chromebooks or PCs! Podcasting offers an engaging platform to enhance learning experiences, boost creativity, and empower students to share their ideas with the world.

Session Objectives (Links directly to the Teach Computing Y4 Audio Production Unit):
• Explore the BandLab application and its tools, tailored for easy audio creation.
• Learn how to record high-quality audio using built-in features and external microphones.
• Master the use of loops, and sound effects to create professional-sounding podcasts.
• Discover how to arrange and edit audio tracks on an intuitive timeline.
• Experiment with sound processing tools to fine-tune your podcast.
• Learn the steps to export and share your podcast with your audience.

 

Date: Tuesday 2nd March 2027
Time: 16:00-17:30

THIS WILL BE A FACE TO FACE TRAINING COURSE

Expected impact on schools – Participants will:
• Have access to valuable online resources to support computing lessons.
• Be able to confidently deliver audio production lessons using appropriate software.
• Develop engaging lesson ideas that align with the computing curriculum.

Helpful Link: KS2 Teach Computing Curriculum Units (https://teachcomputing.org/curriculum/key-stage-2)

Who is it for?
This course is ideal for KS2 teachers interested in integrating podcasting into their teaching, especially those delivering the Teach Computing Y4 Audio Production Unit.

Charge:
This course is part of the CPD programme for schools in the ICT in Schools Service Offer and is free of charge to those schools. For all other schools, the charge is £40.00 + VAT.

SPECIAL OFFER
After attending a DUO course each school/attendee will be eligible for a reduced cost half day, taught session using BandLab either at The Word or in school.
• Staff attending the course must be present for the follow up session.
• The session will use 30 points of your allocation instead of 60.
• Staff can only attend the Duo Course once to benefit from the reduced points charge.

(Points can be purchased if required – please enquire for costings)

To register, please contact: [email protected]

 

 

 

DUO Course: Y4 Audio Production – Podcasting with GarageBand – Tuesday 2nd March 2027

Join this hands-on short course and explore the creative potential of podcasting using GarageBand on iPads! Podcasting offers an engaging platform to enhance learning experiences, boost creativity, and empower students to share their ideas with the world.

Session Objectives (Links directly to the Teach Computing Y4 Audio Production Unit):
• Explore the GarageBand app and its tools, tailored for easy audio creation.
• Learn how to record high-quality audio using built-in features and external microphones.
• Master the use of loops and sound effects to create professional-sounding podcasts.
• Discover how to arrange and edit audio tracks on GarageBand’s intuitive timeline.
• Experiment with sound processing tools to fine-tune your podcast.
• Learn the steps to export and share your podcast with your audience.

Date: Tuesday 2nd March 2027
Time: 16:00-17:30

THIS WILL BE A FACE TO FACE TRAINING COURSE

Expected impact on schools – Participants will:
• Have access to valuable online resources to support computing lessons.
• Be able to confidently deliver audio production lessons using appropriate software.
• Develop engaging lesson ideas that align with the computing curriculum.

Helpful Link: KS2 Teach Computing Curriculum Units (https://teachcomputing.org/curriculum/key-stage-2)

Who is it for?
This course is ideal for KS2 teachers interested in integrating podcasting into their teaching, especially those delivering the Teach Computing Y4 Audio Production Unit.

Charge:
This course is part of our Apple RTC CPD offer and is Free of Charge to schools.

SPECIAL OFFER
After attending a DUO course each school/attendee will be eligible for a reduced cost half day, taught session using GarageBand either at The Word or in school.
• Staff attending the course must be present for the follow up session.
• The session will use 30 points of your allocation instead of 60.
• Staff can only attend the Duo Course once to benefit from the reduced points charge. (Points can be purchased if required – please enquire for costings)

To register, please contact: [email protected]

Contact Us

ICT In Schools
Open Zone @ The Word
45 Market Place
South Shields
NE33 1JF

0191 424 6336

[email protected]

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