An exciting project has launched today in Essex, giving children the chance to develop their problem-solving, literacy and coding skills.
The project, funded by Essex County Council, is bringing LEGO® Education kits into libraries in priority Levelling Up areas across the county.
LEGO® Education SPIKE™ Essential kits use a combination of relatable LEGO® minifigures and blocks, alongside Lenovo Chromebooks, to challenge young learners aged 6-11.
As well as encouraging children to develop their problem-solving skills using science, technology, engineering, arts and maths (STEAM) concepts, they will also get the chance to learn how to code.
Free, bookable LEGO® in libraries sessions will launch in libraries in Basildon, Canvey Island, Colchester, rural Braintree, Harlow and Tendring from 30 May. These must be booked at here.
LEGO® in libraries is jointly funded by two of the council’s programmes, Digital Essex and Multiply in Essex. Digital Essex is working to overcome the causes of digital exclusion, which include access, affordability, and adoption of the skills needed to use digital technologies.
Multiply offers courses to help Essex residents improve their maths skills at work and at home. Free Multiply courses are available across every area of Essex to help parents and carers feel better able to support their child with their schoolwork. There are also courses available to help people manage their personal finances and increase their confidence using numbers in the workplace.
Cllr Louise McKinlay, Deputy Leader of Essex County Council, said: “LEGO® in libraries is a great new opportunity for children in Essex, not only to develop their English and maths skills, but also their digital ICT skills. In addition, it helps them to become familiar at a young age with using different forms of technology, all while having fun!”
Find out more about LEGO® in libraries visit the website here.