We have been using Sam Lab blocks for the past year with our boys.These fantastic blocks were invented by  Joachim Horn “to empower people with the right tools to shape the world they wanted to live in.” ( see more  information at  https://techcrunch.com/2016/05/01/sam-labs-funding/). We found out about these exciting new blocks and introduced them into Keble to improve our technology curriculum. We had wanted something to help the boys gain an understanding of the Internet of Things. The blocks use bluetooth to connect and allow the boys to prototype their ideas. They allow us to include open ended projects especially with  Y7 and Y8 and encourage the boys to invent and problem solve. We have used them so far with Y5,Y7 and Y8 and next term we will be also working with Y6.

We believe, at Keble, in preparing our boys for the future and we are very aware that we are educating them for jobs that may not have yet been invented. We therefore want our boys to explore the latest innovations and be able to adapt, think on their feet and problem solve. That way they will be able to handle new skills and jobs which may come their way. Working with Sam blocks encourages all of these skills.

Sam Labs (https://www.samlabs.com/) contacted Keble and asked if they could work with myself and the boys. They are excited by the demand for their blocks and the interest shown by schools. They are excited by the work we have been doing and want to use us as a test case to help them develop support for schools. They would like us to try out new prototypes of blocks and help them to develop their product to make it even more accessible to schools and pupils. We have worked with a team from Sam over the past three weeks and they have come into Y5 and Y7 lessons to observe the boys and will continue to visit over the next few terms. They have especially been excited by our creative use of the 3D printer to enhance working with their blocks. It has been an exciting time for us ! It is a great opportunity for Keble to establish close links to such a forward thinking team and such a exciting product. You may see evidence of our collaboration soon on their website.

Year 7 and 8 have been designing intelligent board games and the Sam team have asked if they can offer a prize. They are offering a visit to their offices and a chance to see the development of their blocks first hand ! This is a wonderful opportunity for the winner.