Posted April 2025.
Last week, our students had the exciting opportunity to visit Bletchley Park, the historic site of codebreaking during World War II and the birthplace of modern computing. Throughout the day, they participated in a variety of immersive workshops that allowed them to explore topics such as cybersecurity, cryptography, robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and retro gaming. Here’s a recap of their adventures:
Cyber Champions:
In the Cyber Champions workshop, students learned about the importance of online safety and cybersecurity. They were introduced to key concepts of protecting personal information, identifying threats like phishing, and understanding how their online presence affects their digital footprint. The session also included practical activities that helped reinforce safe online practices. As a thoughtful gesture, each student was given a privacy cover for their phone camera, a small but effective tool in protecting their privacy from hackers in the digital world. The students were engaged and eager to ask questions, reflecting the importance of learning how to stay safe online.
Codename Cipher I – The Bombe and the Enigma:
In Codename Cipher I, students took a step back in time to learn about the remarkable efforts of wartime codebreakers. Through an interactive code-breaking activity, they explored the Bombe machine and the legendary Enigma cipher used by the Germans during World War II. The students worked in teams to solve puzzles, simulating the challenges faced by codebreakers at Bletchley Park. It was an eye-opening experience as they learned how mathematics, computing, and human ingenuity came together to crack codes and change the course of history.
Gaming & Shop – A Journey Through Gaming History:
The Gaming & Shop session took students on a time-traveling adventure through the evolution of gaming technology. They had the chance to play on a variety of legacy gaming consoles and classic computer games, including those from the 80s and 90s, such as vintage arcade machines and early home consoles. The experience was nostalgic for many, and students were fascinated by the simplicity of older games compared to modern-day gaming systems. They also had the opportunity to explore the museum’s gift shop, where they found unique gaming memorabilia, including retro game cartridges and collectible items.
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Robotics & AI – Exploring the Future of Technology:
In the Robotics & AI workshop, students delved into both historic and modern robotics and artificial intelligence. Through interactive quizzes and demonstrations, they learned about the early days of automation and the rise of AI technologies. The session gave them an understanding of the fundamentals of robotics, from simple mechanical machines to advanced AI-driven robots used in industries today. The students enjoyed the hands-on nature of the activities and were especially excited to see how robots are evolving in the real world, from manufacturing to healthcare.
BBC Basic – Coding the Classic Snake Game:
The BBC Basic workshop took students on a nostalgic journey back to the 1980s. Using authentic BBC Micro computers, students learned how to write code in BBC Basic to program the iconic Snake game. This hands-on session gave students a chance to experience early programming firsthand, learning the basics of coding logic, loops, and commands in a retro environment. After successfully coding their own versions of the game, the students enjoyed playing them on the old-school green screen monitors—a perfect blend of learning and fun!
Byte-Size Digits – Decoding and Engineering Challenge:
In the Byte-Size Digits session, students honed their communication and teamwork skills as they worked together to solve an engineering challenge. The activity began with the students deciphering a code using encryption techniques. Once they cracked the code, it revealed a significant year: 1944. With this information, they shifted gears and used their engineering skills to collaboratively build a sign displaying the year. This hands-on task not only reinforced their understanding of codebreaking but also gave them an opportunity to put their problem-solving and creative engineering abilities to the test.
A Truly Memorable Experience:
Overall, the trip to Bletchley Park was an incredible success, providing students with a unique opportunity to explore the foundations of modern technology, from the history of cryptography and computing to cybersecurity, robotics, and coding. Each workshop sparked curiosity and allowed students to engage with these subjects in a hands-on, interactive way. They left with not only new skills and knowledge but also a deep appreciation for the advancements in technology that shape the world today. We hope this trip will inspire them to pursue their interests in the world of computing and technology!
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