Pudsey school's education centre first in the north (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Toy firm LEGO backs science facility at Crawshaw School

8:00am Friday 13th January 2012 in News

A purpose-built education centre backed by building blocks toy company LEGO has opened at a school in Pudsey, and is the first of its kind in the North of England.

Crawshaw School, in Robin Lane, has worked with LEGO Education to develop the centre, which is being used to boost learning in science lessons.

The centre, which is also being used by pupils at nearby primary schools, contains a wide range of equipment, much of it programmed by dedicated software installed on the bank of laptops.

Pupils can use the software to make models interact with the surrounding environment using sensors, while staff can demonstrate scientific principles and teach programming.

Head teacher Joanna Ruse said: “This is an innovative and exciting learning opportunity for students and they are responding to it with great enthusiasm. We look forward to extending its impact in the area.”

The official opening will be attended by representatives from other schools in the surrounding area, who will have access to the centre, and members of Crawshaw’s governing body.

The centre forms part of the school’s development under the Building Schools for the Future programme and as a trust school.

Software company RM Education has also helped develop the centre.

It will be officially opened on Tuesday, January 31, when pupils and staff will give demonstrations to guests, who are due to include Pudsey MP Stuart Andrew and Councillor Judith Blake, deputy leader of Leeds City Council, which has worked in partnership with the school on the development.