Physical Computing with MicroPython, ESP32/Raspberry Pi Pico

Learn how software interacts with the real world using microcontrollers, sensors and electronics.

Learn by Building

This hands-on course introduces learners to physical computing and microcontroller programming using platforms such as ESP32, Raspberry Pi Pico and micro:bit.

Learners discover how software interacts with the real world by programming electronic devices, reading sensor data and controlling components such as motors, LEDs and displays.

The course begins with block-based programming concepts before progressing to text-based coding with MicroPython.

What You'll Explore

Learners will work with ESP32, Raspberry Pi Pico and micro:bit microcontrollers, exploring sensors, LEDs, buttons, motors, displays and other electronic components.

Projects will help learners understand how code can control physical devices, respond to sensor inputs and create interactive systems.

Learning Requirements

Learners should be able to use a keyboard, follow written and visual instructions and be willing to practise typing skills at home. No previous coding experience is required.

Regular practice between sessions is encouraged as learners progress from block-based programming concepts to MicroPython.

Equipment

Learners must bring their own laptop. First Step Robotics will provide support with software installation and setup.

All electronics, microcontrollers and project components required during sessions are provided during the sessions.

Take Your Skills Further

Advanced learners will have opportunities to take on engineering projects, develop leadership skills and collaborate with others on longer-term creations.

Showcase Your Work

In Term 3 (May or June 2027), learners will have the opportunity to showcase their projects at our Family Tech Day and participate in the 123Robot® Competition, celebrating their achievements with family and friends.

Important Information

This course is designed to be taken from the beginning of a block, as each session builds on previous learning.

Learners joining mid-block may need to complete additional work at home to catch up. Regular attendance is recommended to get the most from the programme and successfully complete projects.

Ready to Start Creating?

Start exploring physical computing, MicroPython and electronics with First Step Robotics.

Robotics Explorers with micro:bit & 123Robot®

Take the next step from LEGO robotics into coding, sensors, motors and autonomous robots.

Explore Robotics

Robotics Explorers with 123Robot® is a beginner robotics programme designed as the next step for children who have completed our LEGO Robotics & Creative Technology course.

Learners progress from hands-on building into block-based coding, robotics, sensors, motors and engineering challenges, developing problem-solving, creativity and teamwork through practical 123Robot® projects.

Across three blocks, learners build and programme robots, complete challenges and begin developing autonomous robotics skills.

What You'll Explore

Learners will work with micro:bit, 123Robot®, sensors, motors and robotics systems to understand how robots sense, move and respond to their environment.

Through practical challenges, learners will develop block-based programming skills while learning to control robots, use sensors, solve engineering problems and create autonomous behaviours.

Your Coding Journey

The programme begins with block-based coding, providing a visual and accessible introduction to programming.

In Term 3, learners are introduced to Python programming, providing a gentle transition from block-based coding towards text-based programming.

Learning Requirements

No previous robotics or coding experience is required. Basic reading and writing skills are recommended to help learners follow instructions and understand coding concepts.

Equipment

Learners must bring their own laptop.

First Step Robotics will provide the robotics equipment, electronics and project components required during sessions.

Showcase Your Work

In Term 3 (May or June 2027), learners will have the opportunity to showcase their projects at our Family Tech Day and participate in the 123Robot® Competition, celebrating their achievements with family and friends.

Important Information

This course is designed to be taken from the beginning of a block, as each session builds on previous learning.

Learners joining mid-block may need to complete additional work at home to catch up. Regular attendance is recommended to get the most from the programme and successfully complete projects.

Ready to Explore Robotics?

Take the next step into coding, robotics and 123Robot®.

Game Design & Development with Unity

Learn to design, code and develop your own video games using Unity and C# programming.

Course Overview

Game Design & Development with Unity is a practical programme introducing young people to the exciting world of video game development.

Using the Unity game engine and C# programming language, learners develop the technical and creative skills needed to design, build and programme their own interactive games.

Throughout the programme, participants explore game mechanics, player movement, programming logic, level design, user interfaces, sound and interactive storytelling.

Across three school-term blocks, learners progress from their first game prototype to a more complete, playable project that they can present and share with others.

Term 1 — Foundations of Game Design

Learners are introduced to the Unity game engine and the C# programming environment. They explore the fundamentals of game design, including game mechanics, player experience, scenes, game objects and level layout.

Through guided practical activities, participants begin writing their first scripts and learn how programming instructions control objects and behaviours within a game.

By the end of Term 1, learners will have:

• Installed and explored the Unity development environment.
• Understood the basic structure of a Unity project.
• Explored scenes, game objects and components.
• Developed an introduction to C# scripting.
• Designed and built a simple 2D game prototype.

Term 2 — Programming & Interactivity

Learners build on their programming knowledge and develop more advanced C# scripting skills. They explore how to create interactive gameplay experiences by controlling characters, responding to events and implementing game logic.

Participants continue developing their game prototypes, introducing new features and improving the overall player experience.

By the end of Term 2, learners will have explored:

• Player movement and character controls.
• Collisions and object interactions.
• Variables, conditions and programming logic.
• Scoring systems and game rules.
• User interfaces and interactive elements.
• Sound effects, visual elements and game feedback.
• Testing and improving gameplay.

Learners will work towards a more complete and playable version of their game.

Term 3 — Refinement & Showcase

The final block focuses on developing, refining and completing each learner's game. Participants apply their programming and design knowledge to improve gameplay, resolve errors and create a polished final project.

During Term 3, learners will:

• Refine and improve their game mechanics.
• Debug scripts and resolve programming errors.
• Balance gameplay and improve the player experience.
• Add final visual, artwork and audio elements.
• Test and prepare a complete playable game.
• Develop a short presentation or demonstration of their project.

By the end of the programme, each learner will have developed a game project that demonstrates their creativity, programming ability and understanding of game development.

Learning Outcomes

By completing the programme, participants will:

• Understand the fundamentals of video game design and development.
• Gain practical experience using the Unity game engine.
• Develop foundational text-based programming skills using C#.
• Understand programming concepts, variables, conditions and game logic.
• Create interactive gameplay mechanics and player controls.
• Develop skills in level design and user interface development.
• Learn to test, debug and improve software projects.
• Gain confidence in developing and presenting their own games.

Our Teaching Approach

At First Step Robotics, we believe the best way to learn technology is by creating something of your own.

Our approach combines structured programming lessons with practical game development challenges. Learners are encouraged to experiment, solve problems, test ideas and develop their own creative solutions.

Rather than simply following tutorials, participants progressively develop their understanding of how games are designed, programmed and built.

The emphasis is on developing real programming skills while encouraging creativity, independent thinking and technical problem-solving.

Equipment & Software Requirements

Learners must bring their own laptop for use during the sessions.

Unity and the required development tools will be used throughout the programme. We will provide guidance and support with software installation, account setup and configuring the development environment.

Basic computer literacy is recommended to help learners navigate the development environment and manage their projects.

Learning Requirements

No previous coding or game development experience is necessary. The programme is designed to introduce learners to programming from the foundations.

Basic computer literacy, including using a computer, managing files and navigating software applications, is recommended.

Curiosity, creativity and an interest in video games and technology are all you need to get started.

Showcase Your Game

In Term 3 (May or June 2027), learners will have the opportunity to showcase their completed projects at our Family Tech Day.

Participants can demonstrate their games, explain how they developed them and celebrate their achievements with family and friends.

This is an opportunity to share their creativity, programming skills and progress as young game developers.

Important Information

This course is designed to be taken from the beginning of a block, as each session builds on previous learning.

Learners joining mid-block may need to complete additional work at home to catch up. Regular attendance is recommended to get the most from the programme and successfully complete their projects.

Learners must bring their own laptop to every session.

Ready to Create Your Own Game?

Turn your ideas into playable games. Learn to code, design and develop with Unity.

Digital Futures & Well-Being

Explore. Create. Connect. Grow.
A FREE community STEM programme helping children and young people discover robotics, coding, AI, 3D design and more.

FREE Community STEM Programme
Wardieburn, Edinburgh

Venue

Royston Wardieburn Community Centre
11 Pilton Dr
Edinburgh
EH5 1NF

Every Tuesday
6:00pm – 7:30pm

Explore STEM, Build Confidence

Come and explore STEM, coding, robotics, AI, 3D design and digital technology in a fun, friendly and inclusive environment.

This FREE programme is designed to help children and young people build confidence, friendships, creativity and future skills while discovering new technologies through hands-on activities.

We especially welcome children and families from migrant, asylum-seeking, ethnic minority and low-income households, as well as local residents.

4-Week STEM Block

Each four-week block introduces a different area of STEM through practical activities, teamwork and creative challenges.

Week 1 – Discover STEM & LEGO® Education

Start exploring STEM through hands-on LEGO® Education activities, visual coding and fun engineering challenges.

Activities include:
LEGO® Education activities
Visual and block-based coding
Team-building activities
Problem-solving challenges

Week 2 – Build & Code with 123Robot®

Build and programme 123Robot® kits while exploring robotics, motors, sensors and team challenges.

Activities include:
Build and programme 123Robot® kits
micro:bit and block-based coding
Motors and sensors
Team robotics challenges

Week 3 – Explore AI & Creative Technology

Discover what artificial intelligence is and explore how AI and sensors can be used to solve real-world problems.

Activities include:
Introduction to AI
AI cameras and sensors
Block-based coding
Creative technology challenges

Week 4 – 3D Design & Making

Learn how digital designs can be transformed into real objects using 3D CAD and 3D printing.

Activities include:
Introduction to 3D CAD design
3D printing
Design your own object
Turn a digital design into something real

More Than STEM

We want to bring children, young people and families together, reduce isolation and create a welcoming community where everyone feels they belong.

Through shared activities, teamwork and family events, the programme provides opportunities to make new friends, build confidence and develop a sense of community.

Priority for Local Families

Priority will be given to children and young people living in Wardieburn and close surrounding areas.

Places are intended primarily for families living locally.

Funded by The National Lottery Community Fund.

This programme is provided free of charge to eligible local children and young people.

Future STEM Blocks

We will advertise future STEM blocks on our website and Facebook. Please keep checking for upcoming dates, times and registration information.

Ready to Get Involved?

Join us for a FREE four-week STEM experience in Wardieburn.