PyConUK 2015
Lots of Python and a chance to try the Micro:bit.
September 18, the first PyCon UK since the untimely passing of its organiser, John Pinner, carries on the proud tradition of promoting Python across the diverse community.
The Education track has evolved and grown since its inception. For 2015 we saw the return of the Raspberry Pi Foundation, with a series of workshops covering topics, such as Pygame Zero and its recent high altitude ballooning Picademy. Python in education is a hot topic and it’s clear that this element of PyConUK is becoming a major draw for teachers. As well as workshops there was much needed time for teachers to discuss classroom ideas and listen to talks from their peers.
Also present was the much anticipated Micro:bit from the BBC. This can be programmed via a block based language or a special editor called TouchDevelop. It was recently announced that there would also be a version of Python 3 that will work with the board, thanks to the Python Software Foundation and Damien George, creator of Micro Python. It’s even possible to connect to the Micro:bit via USB/serial and type commands in Python directly into the device. At PyConUK there was a demonstration of this and a sprint to further develop the Python package.
PyConUK also ran its usual mix of fantastic workshops, talks and sprints over the four-day event, which covered the broad spectrum of Python usage across many facets of the community.
As usual, PyConUK was a fantastic event that provided lots of inspiration and more importantly brought a community together for a weekend of fun. Oh, and they found an unexploded WWII bomb, which was successfully destroyed by the bomb squad.