In this Easter holiday camp children will explore and learn how to:
- solve arithmetical and algebraic problems
- operate a robot, with hands-on experience of educational robotics
- code
- play chess
The camp runs from 9am to 12pm or 1pm to 4pm over four days. Each three hour day is divided into classes on the topics above with comfort breaks and opportunities to stop for drinks and a snack.
Learning groups are very small with a pupil to teacher ratio of 6 to 1. Learning groups are tailored for each child’s age and level of experience with the subject to provide appropriate levels of simplicity or complexity.
In Maths and Problem Solving children will approach arithmetic and algebra through a series of questions starting with the simplest and gently climbing to more difficult ones. Pupils will be encouraged to notice common features in mathematical situations and to learn how to use arithmetic operations appropriate to various contexts. This will bring them closer to understanding the general properties of numbers and operations, preparing them for algebraic thinking.
We will be making the learning process as smooth and enjoyable as possible by using exciting games and puzzles to illustrate the logic of arithmetic and algebra and to make sure the subjects are understood and not learned by rote.
Coding and why we teach it: coding has become one of the most important skills of the 21st century. As well as being a profession, understanding how to program strengthens logical thinking and problem-solving skills – vital in many different areas of life, from engineering and science to medicine and law. In each of our camps we choose a different coding project for children to work on and study through so the learning experience is always fresh even if a child has attended several of our camps.
Robotics is a unique area of study, bringing together programming, problem solving, engineering, mathematics and physics. At its most basic level, robotics breathes life into programming, with pupils swiftly able to see the working results of their coding efforts.
In this camp children will see the applications of robots ranging from fixed-base (like those used on auto production lines) to mobile (like those in Amazon warehouses). Our campers will actually code a ‘micro:bit’, which is an easily programmable Single Board Computer (SBC) that contains an application processor with a variety of on-chip peripherals. The end result is a form of hand held robotic controller with a display panel for messages.
In Chess, the primary goal for the youngest and newest players will be to learn the basic rules of chess and begin playing. More advanced players will be coached in strategy and tactics and how to improve their game. To develop a child’s interest in chess, we present it as an exciting game of protecting one’s kingdom and its inhabitants.
Research shows that playing chess regularly helps children achieve better results in maths and sciences, enhances language skills and memory and, most importantly, improves decision making which is why many countries teach it as a part of the school curriculum.
Format and fees for the junior face to face camp (Reception to Year 3 / Ages 4.5 to 8):
- small groups of similar age and experience. Pupil to teacher ratio is 6 to 1
- four days from Monday to Thursday from either 9am to 12pm or 1pm to 4pm
fees are £380 for all four days. It is not possible to join for a shorter period