On Wednesday, 26 March students at our Gateway Centre took part in an exciting hands-on session with Lego Education, designed to help them build valuable skills in a way that’s creative and fun.
Ben Abbott, Lego Education Lead at Getech, guided the students through the session. “Today, we’re demonstrating how Lego Education can support learning in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) subjects,” Ben explained. “It’s not just about building with Lego; it’s about learning coding, engineering, and problem-solving in a way that keeps students engaged and motivated.”
The students worked on building a simple Lego ‘hopper.’ They started with building instructions, but the main goal was to test and refine their designs as they went. “The focus is on trial and error,” Ben said. “If something doesn’t work, students can adjust their builds and try again, helping them develop resilience and creative thinking.”
What made the session so engaging was how each student approached their task in their own way. “Every single hopper looks different, which shows how every student learns and creates differently,” said Ben. “Lego Education gives them the freedom to be creative and think outside the box.”
But it wasn’t just about building. The session also gave students the chance to work together, communicate, and solve problems as a team. “While they’re having fun, they’re also developing skills they’ll use in their future careers,” Ben said. “They’re learning to overcome challenges, which is a key skill in any job.”
Digital innovation and development coach, Kate Whyles, said:
“We’re always looking for ways to introduce new learning experiences. Lego Education is a great way for our students to explore STEM subjects in a way that feels fun and rewarding. It gives students a taste of something different, but also gives an opportunity to explore different subjects such as engineering, computer science, and coding - in a really kind and friendly environment”
Curriculum Manager for Supported Learning, Zubia Haque, said:
"I am incredibly grateful to the LEGO Education staff for their dedication and innovative approach. Our SEND students at Entry Levels 1, 2 and 3 thoroughly enjoyed the unique and interactive learning methods, as well as the opportunity to develop their digital skills. They learned valuable skills such as problem-solving, teamwork, creativity and coding. The students remained focused and worked diligently throughout the sessions, making the entire experience both enjoyable and educational."
About The Gateway
The Gateway is Nottingham College’s brand-new independent living and employability skills centre for students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities (SLDD).
Based at the college’s Basford site, The Gateway supports and equips SLDD students with skills to enhance their future opportunities, their everyday life, and to reach their full potential.
