Enhancing primary science with the BBC micro:bit

This session will showcase a new initiative between White Rose Education and the BBC micro:bit Foundation, designed to enrich the teaching and learning of primary science. The project harnesses the potential of the BBC micro:bit, not to teach computing, but to enhance children’s scientific understanding and develop key working scientifically skills including observation, measurement, data handling and drawing conclusions from evidence. In the White Rose Science scheme of learning, pre-written code is provided for each experiment that involves the micro:bit, allowing children to focus on the science rather than coding. The project positions the micro:bit as a tool for supporting practical science in meaningful, hands-on ways. Children use the device as a digital tool for collecting real-time data—such as temperature and light levels—as part of science investigations. These investigations support pupils in working scientifically and thinking like scientists, while engaging them in purposeful contexts. A key feature of the project is the integration of the data logging function of the micro:bit into primary science lessons. Using the micro:bit’s built-in sensors, pupils can gather real-time data on variables such as temperature. This allows them to conduct investigations that go beyond simple observation, enabling them to quantify change, monitor conditions over time and make comparisons with greater accuracy. The process of data logging also supports pupils in developing their understanding of how scientists collect and use evidence, helping them build fluency in working with measurements and identifying patterns.