“Values, beliefs, teamwork, independent thinking … these are all examples of the skills a computer does not have” - David Richards, co-founder, DJRFF

Our “Get Creative with Data” course is a pioneering syllabus for use in the KS3 computing classroom, created in collaboration with teachers and industry experts. The course encourages young people to explore data science through hands-on activities and project based learning, and equips them with essential skills to help them lead and succeed in the digital age.

For groups that work with young people outside of school, the foundation runs a BBC micro:bit lending scheme to encourage organisations to introduce coding and digital skills into their sessions. Find out more about our computer science projects below.
 

Get Creative with Data

Our “Get Creative with Data” course is free to schools and provides teachers with a full year’s worth of lesson materials, broken down into six modules; these can be taught in any order, or as standalone units as preferred. Pupils will explore engaging topics including machine learning and artificial intelligence, practical data science skills, STEM careers and many more. Lesson packs include lesson plans, slides, worksheets, homework activities and assessments. Example resources can be found on our Resources page. “Get Creative with Data” offers a balanced syllabus that gives equal importance to:

 

The micro:bit lending scheme

The micro:bit lending scheme is open to all community groups - including after-school clubs and uniformed organisations such as Scouts, Guides &  Brownies - working with young people who would like to introduce coding and digital skills into their sessions. The micro:bit is a small, programmable computer with a screen and onboard sensors - they can be transformed into step counters, games, sunshine sensors and lots more. They are a fantastic way for young people to get coding and unleash their digital creativity. We will send a set of 10  - along with USB cables -  to you which you simply return once you have completed your project. The scheme offers:

  • Flexible borrowing periods
  • The opportunity to borrow micro:bits at no cost to your organisation
  • Information and links to useful resources to help you get started

  • “As a teacher, seeing the 'light bulb moment' when students link Computer Science to the real world is magical. The use of relevant and student-friendly topics has made this easy for students to learn and understand whilst still challenging. Support from the foundation has been first class. A great experience!”

    Rebecca Murray, Computing teacher, Doncaster

  • “The resources are of a really high quality, thoroughly well-researched and on the pulse of latest developments. I enjoyed teaching these lessons and the pupils found the topics of AI and Smart Cities in particular really engaging. It saved me a significant amount of time developing and planning lessons this year, instead allowing me to focus on delivery.”

    Keir Birch, Computing teacher, Sheffield

  • “I would highly recommend embedding the foundation’s course into a KS3 Computer Science curriculum. Students engage with the lessons enthusiastically, and have the opportunity to discover solutions to real life problems, improve their communication skills and use new technology not available to most outside industry or university.”

    Aileen Williams, Computing teacher, Sheffield

  • “This is a step change for computing education in school with an absolute focus on engagement and enjoyment in learning.”

    David Dennis, CEO, Tapton School Academy Trust

  • “To truly inspire beyond measure, we must promote innovation within the classroom. The DJRFF curriculum and dedicated support provided by the Foundation enables our pupils to be immersed in a groundbreaking, relevant curriculum, and our educators to expand their own understanding of the core skills our young people will need to flourish in an ever-evolving digital world.”

    Benedick Ashmore-Short, Interim CEO, Astrea Academy Trust

    Our industry partnerships

    The David & Jane Richards Family Foundation is delighted to work with a growing number of supporters who are making innovative use of data across a wide range of industries and backgrounds.

    Whether hosting a site visit, delivering a talk or presentation or assisting with the creation of lesson plans and materials, our industry partnerships are invaluable in helping us to bring computing and data science to life for young people.