This week 40 of our Year 7 students took part in an exhilarating experience at Blackpool & Fylde College. MEGA Mania, a dynamic, action-packed day focused on the futures of Technology, Cybersecurity, and AI. This event wasn't just about fun; it was a crucial step in preparing our youngest pupils for the digital world ahead, challenging them to collaborate, code, and think critically.

In teams, the students rotated through high-energy zones, tackling challenges that required rapid problem-solving and creative thinking. 

 

Key Highlights of the Day

The MEGA Mania event was structured to hit important learning and development objectives:

  • Robotics Challenge: Students got hands-on with Sphero robots , engaging in free-play, completing basic coding challenges, and running time trials. This activity was a fantastic introduction to block coding and physical computing.
  • Cyber 'Break the Box': The teams faced intense digital puzzles, cryptography tasks, and code challenges, racing to unlock a sequence of physical and digital locks. This "Break the Box" escape activity strengthened their analytical thinking and logic skills.
  • Cyber Hackathon: A fast-paced digital calendar of 10 tech challenges tested their knowledge, research skills, and ability to apply logic in a competitive, fun environment.
  • Future Focus: The day kicked off with a Hub Tour and concluded with a Reflection session, helping students understand how the skills they used link directly to digital careers and future study pathways.

 

Skills for the Future

The activities at MEGA Mania were specifically designed to meet key educational benchmarks and develop core life skills:

  • Teamwork & Communication: Students learned the value of collaboration as they worked with new peers from other schools under pressure.
  • Problem-Solving & Resilience: The challenges required critical thinking and the ability to persevere when faced with difficult coding or logic puzzles.
  • Digital Literacy: They gained exposure to real-world applications of coding, robotics, and cybersecurity concepts.

It was inspiring to watch our Year 7 students embrace these challenges with such energy and enthusiasm. Events like MEGA Mania are vital in linking classroom learning (particularly Maths and Computer Science) directly to the exciting career opportunities available in the rapidly growing technology sector.

This super-curricular experience formed part of the Lancashire MEGA Hubs programme, delivered by IN4 Group in partnership with Lancashire County Council. Through this ground-breaking initiative, every secondary state school in the county will have access to cutting-edge opportunities in artificial intelligence, cyber, technology, and soft skills. The programme is designed to equip young people with the skills, experiences, and inspiration to thrive in the future world of work.