Thousands of pupils ‘hooked’ on new computing project

An upgraded computing curriculum that looks set to revolutionise the way programming is taught in Scotland has been rolled out to more than 11,000 pupils across Tayside.

The Barefoot Computing Project was launched by Deputy First Minister John Swinney in Perthshire last summer.

Pupils as young as five are using the programme, developed by BT, to understand otherwise complex concepts such as algorithms and abstraction, as well as creating simple programmes of their own.

Barefoot offers schools free teaching resources and volunteer-led training workshops to help teachers keep up to speed.

The initiative uses fun puzzles and games, some featuring mini robot bugs known as Beebots.

Nearly 46,000 schoolchildren in Scotland are now using the programme, including 6,500 in Fife, 1,400 in Angus, 2,500 in Dundee and 600 across the Perth and Kinross region.

Stuart Clyde, head teacher at the Community School of Auchterarder, which hosted the September unveiling, said: “We were delighted to be chosen as the launch venue for Barefoot in Scotland.

“From the moment the children laid hands on the Beebots they were hooked.”

Mr Clyde added: “Teachers too felt their confidence in delivering computer science increasing very quickly.

“As we progress with the barefoot programme and resources, we are looking forward to raising profile of Stem (science, technology, engineering and maths) subjects throughout the school and empowering our young people by gaining the vital skills they need to take their place as 21st Century learners.”

Brendan Dick, director of BT Scotland, said: “Computing is a vital skill for Scotland’s future.

“For the individual, it opens the door to a world of possibilities.

“Businesses and organisations of all types and sizes rely on technology, while households use it for online learning, research and entertainment.”