#LightTheArch With EE

In September 2013, ICT (Information and Communications Technology) was replaced by Computing. When I was at school our ICT lessons were all about creating Word Documents or painting a picture using Paint. But now children as young as 5 are being taught at such a more complicated level. At just Key Stage 1, they will learn to do things like creating and debugging programs. This blows my mind away despite my husband being in the IT industry for work.

Recently, we were invited to head to Wembley to experience EE’s new web app, Light The Arch. This app helps to teach children aged 7-11 years the basic principles of coding. For those of you who haven’t got a clue what I am talking about, coding is quite simple a set of instructions which make something electrical work. People write it which makes things like computers, cars and watches for example know what they are doing.

So anyway, EE have created a web app that helps children understand coding a little better by giving them the chance to code their own light show and light up Wembley Arena’s Arch. Unfortunately, we were unable to attend the event itself but I couldn’t not write about something that actually benefits children and is my hubby’s cup of tea. Here’s a little clip of what went on and what the kids thought of the app at the event:

The Light The Arch web app allows children and adults to create a light show. The app lets you see the coding, change colours and create your own sequences of actions for the Wembley Arch. This tool gives children a visual representation of the coding they have created and I really believe will help encourage the computing curriculum. Recent research shows that the UK will be unable to fill up to 250,000 digital jobs between 2015 and 2020, because of the digital skills gap, so tools like Light the Arch are so important to get kids interested in technology, computer and coding.

You can try the Light The Arch web app for yourself and create a beautiful light show with your child. They are able to download and share it with their family and friends. I’d love to hear what you think of this app and to see your Light shows so tag me on Twitter @lwpprincesses when you share. This web app is available to all, whether that’s in schools or at home.

Disclosure: I am a member of the Mumsnet Bloggers Network Research Panel, a group of parent bloggers who have volunteered to review products, services, events and brands for Mumsnet. I have not paid for the product or to attend an event. I have editorial control and retain full editorial integrity. I have received a tablet as a token of thanks for this post.