HEIF: PyPlay: Fun with Python for Junior Coders

Project Description

‘PyPlay: Fun with Python for Junior Coders’ (hereafter ‘PyPlay’) is an educational programme aimed at teaching primary school children (Year 6’s, 10-11 year olds) Python* programming skills through the highly engaging process of creating simple and fun Python computer games.

Demand for programming skills is growing exponentially. The UK’s National AI Strategy states that developing talent is at the core of maintaining the UK’s world-leading position in AI, and as AI tools become omnipresent in society, their effective use becomes essential.

Coding is taught at primary school, but usually through specially developed software that teach programming logic—not functional languages such as Python. PyPlay will teach children Python skills and how to use cutting-edge tools such as ChatGPT productively and ethically, expediting their learning, and future-proofing
their knowledge.

DAIM is perfectly positioned to develop this content, as the majority of teaching on our highly successful MSc is based on Python skills. To ensure the curriculum is age-appropriate and engaging for our target age group, we are partnering with Bricknell Primary School who have highlighted the real-world value of this project (see letter of support).

HEIF funding will be used to hire a new staff member with expertise in programming, on a fixed-term basis (full-time, 6 months). This staff member will develop the curriculum under the supervision and management of the lead applicant, Dr Will Jones, with advice on pedagogical elements provided by Hannah Stannard and Victoria Jones, Bricknell Primary’s head- and deputy-headteacher, respectively.