A TEACHER from Lewes Old Grammar School is reprogramming its computing curriculum with the help of some cutting-edge technology.

Last term, Year 5 teacher Andy Reeder joined the team at Morley House and set about introducing a wide array of new equipment, classes and afterschool clubs for students in the junior school.

The curriculum involves two key changes – the addition of a one-hour coding lesson for all students each week, and the introduction of new technologies, such as iPads, for use in lessons across all subjects.

“The coding lessons are about preparing students for the modern world,” said Andy.

“We’re opening up a traditionally inaccessible topic to children of all abilities via age-appropriate technology such as Microbits. It’s amazing to see them embrace new technology with such enthusiasm.”

Alongside classes, Andy has also introduced a club for 18 of the school’s most enthusiastic coders. Each week, they learn how to build and programme Lego robots, introducing them to physical computing with real world applications. Elsewhere, Andy is working with headteacher, Carrie Whyte, to train staff to make the most of technology in other lessons such as Art and English.

“Andy has really helped our staff embrace technology”, Carrie said.