Coding Comes Alive: Inside the Micro:bit CCA at Nexus

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Think you could turn a handful of electronic parts into a working traffic light or use sensors to measure distance in real time? Our learners do exactly that every week in the Micro:bit CCA at Nexus.

Guided by Computer Science teacher Ciaran Frayne, learners dive into the world of Micro:bit, a tiny programmable device filled with LEDs, sensors and simple inputs. Each week, they take on a new challenge and bring it to life through hands-on coding. By building,  testing, and troubleshooting, they quickly discover that coding can be playful, creative and accessible to everyone.

At Nexus, we believe innovation grows when learners have space to explore. The Micro:bit CCA encourages curiosity and experimentation, giving learners immediate feedback as their code comes alive through movement, light, sound and working circuits. From flashing LEDs to motion-sensing alarms, each task builds on the last and helps them develop confidence and fluency in a practical, enjoyable way.

To learn more about what the CCA feels like from a learner’s perspective, we spoke to Year 8 learners Jens and Aaron, who both joined the Micro:bit CCA for the first time this year. They were excited to share what they have learned so far and what keeps them coming back each week.

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Jens explained that he joined the CCA because he wanted to understand “how coding and computing really work,” while Aaron shared that he was encouraged to join by Mr Ciaran after he noticed he was interested in coding during a lesson. From the first week, both boys felt at home in the CCA’s hands-on and friendly atmosphere.

What they enjoy most is how collaborative the sessions are. Learners pair up or form small groups, share ideas, and help each other figure out what to try next. They both described how helpful it has been to speak to other learners to compare code or circuitry and work through a problem together. As Aaron put it, “We are learning how to solve problems together by figuring out the root of the problem. Whether it is something wrong with the system or the hardware.” Often, someone spots something another person has missed, or explains a concept in a way that suddenly makes everything click. 

In the Micro:bits CCA, nobody is afraid to make mistakes. The learners experiment freely, test out their ideas and try again if something does not work. Everyone is just as curious and enthusiastic, and this mix of independence and teamwork makes each project feel more exciting.

The sense of community is something they both value. Aaron enjoys meeting learners from different year groups, and Jens appreciates how everyone steps in to help if someone gets stuck. “We learn from each other by helping each other figure out where we went wrong,” Jens said. Aaron agreed, adding that “the advice on how to improve our coding has been really helpful.”

Under the guidance of Mr Ciaran, this approach strengthens digital skills and nurtures problem-solving, critical thinking, teamwork and communication. These are abilities that support learning far beyond the Computer Science classroom.

Through their experiences, it is clear that the Micro:bit CCA is much more than an introduction to programming. It is a space where learners collaborate, build confidence and discover how creative and rewarding coding can be.

It also shows how Nexus brings innovation into everyday learning. By turning complex ideas into hands-on activities, we give learners the freedom to experiment, take risks and experience the power of coding in a meaningful way.

If the Micro:bit CCA sparked your curiosity, there is so much more to discover at Nexus. We offer over 115 Co-Curricular Activities that allow our learners to explore their passions, develop real-world skills and grow into confident, well-rounded individuals. From athletics and the arts to science, technology and creative clubs, every learner can find something they love.

Learn more about our CCAs on our website.