STEMdrones - Drone Coding Workshop
Take STEM learning to new heights with this hands-on drone coding workshop.
The Neon quality mark shows this activity has been reviewed and meets Neon's quality standards.
Overview
Take STEM learning to new heights with this hands-on drone coding workshop for students in years 7 to 13 (S1–S5).
Students use Swift to code flight patterns while piloting drones through custom challenges and developing real-world computing skills. Swift is the same text-based programming language used to develop apps for iPhone and iPad.
Students create algorithms to make drones take off, land, perform flips and rolls, and navigate different altitudes and distances. They can guide their drone safely around a course or programme it to perform a coordinated routine.
Along the way, students explore computing concepts including sequencing, selection, repetition and debugging.
The workshop is mapped to KS3–KS4 Computing, including GCSE computer science. Swift supports text-based programming objectives.
Sessions are adapted for all learners, including those with SEN. Facilitators tailor activities to group needs, ensuring every student is supported and engaged.
Workshop formats available:
Taster (4×60min): Up to 120 students/day (groups of 3)
Standard (3×75–90min): Up to 90 students/day
Advanced (2×2hr): Up to 60 students/day with deeper coding challenges
Details
- School subject
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- Technology/computing
- Engineering
- Maths
- Physics
- Curriculum links
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- Computing
- Physics: Electricity and electromagnetism
- Engineering
- Sciences - Forces, electricity and waves: Electricity
- Computing science
- Physics: Electricity
- Technology & design - Communication: Use of ICT tools (including 3D modelling)
- Sciences - Forces and energy: Using electricity
- Technology & design - Control: Incorporate control systems in products
- Group size
- Small groups, Whole class, Whole year group
- Participation level
- Hands-on
- Duration
- Whole day
- Cost
- Cost may apply
Pricing starts at £797 per day, ex VAT.
Fully funded opportunities: Thanks to partnerships with the Royal Air Force and Defence Nuclear Enterprise, eligible schools can access fully funded STEM workshops. Contact the provider to check your eligibility.
- Location
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In-school
- England
- Scotland
- Wales
Learning outcomes
- Improve engagement, interest or enjoyment in STEM subjects
- Improve awareness and aspirations for STEM-related study and careers
- Challenge stereotypes by showing the diversity of disciplines, people and skills involved in engineering
Frameworks
Gatsby benchmarks
The Gatsby benchmarks are a framework for good careers guidance for schools across all of England and in some areas across the rest of the UK. This experience helps your school to reach the following benchmarks:
- 3 - Addressing the needs of each pupil
- 4 - Linking curriculum learning to careers
EqualEx
The equalex framework allows educators to embed meaningful workplace experiences within a progressive whole school careers programme.
- Introduce and Inspire
Essential skills
The essential skills every young person needs to succeed in education and their future career. Find out more at the Skills Builder Partnership. This experience builds the following skills:
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Enrichment framework
- 5 - An accessible and engaging enrichment offer
Testimonials
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Our students were thrilled—coding drones boosted their confidence and engagement. Staff were envious they couldn’t join in!
— UK Secondary School -
The Drone Coding Workshop with Years 7, 8, and 9 last Friday was huge success. The girls were fascinated by the mix of coding and real-world application, and the thrill of seeing drones respond to their commands was just priceless. It was a brilliant combination of fun, teamwork, and problem-solving – they are still talking about it days later. Honestly, I wouldn’t change a thing. Thank you once again for giving our students such memorable and valuable experiences.
— St Nicholas' School, Fleet, Hampshire
