Codebreakers at Risedale: Operation Enigma with TechFirst

nicholasmoore3

5 days ago

2 min read

Key Stage 3 and 4 computer scientists at Risedale School in Catterick Garrison stepped into the shoes of the Bletchley Park codebreakers this month, as TechFirst delivered our interactive Operation Enigma workshop.

Set during World War II, Operation Enigma challenges pupils to work in teams to crack coded messages, using problem-solving, logical thinking and a bit of Morse code along the way. It's a hands-on introduction to the cyber security skills behind some of today's fastest-growing tech careers.

The workshop had extra meaning at Risedale, where one of the school houses is Turing House, named after Alan Turing, the mathematician who led the team that broke the Enigma code.

What the pupils said

"I really enjoyed the workshop. I liked how it was based in World War II, and I really like Morse code." (Eloi)

"I enjoyed it a lot, and it was something new to try that I don't usually do. It was really useful as I could bond with friends more." (Evie)

What the staff said

Mrs Rodgers, Head of Computing at Risedale: "It has been absolutely amazing to see our pupils demonstrate their resilience and build relationships with each other as they worked together to solve problems. It's a fantastic opportunity that we have been given by TechFirst so that pupils get the opportunity to experience hands-on computing!"

Nik Kelsey, Director of Education for TechFirst North East and North Yorkshire: "The energy and enthusiasm from the pupils were phenomenal. They showed real grit and impressive critical thinking skills throughout the workshop. They demonstrated teamwork and communication, which are critical for any future career in the tech sector."

Risedale is a TechFirst Bronze school, and Operation Enigma is one of the in-school workshops available to TechFirst schools across Yorkshire. A huge thank you to Mrs Rodgers and the Risedale team for having us, and well done to every pupil who took part!

Want Operation Enigma at your school?

Get in touch with Claire at Claire.Garside@techfirstyorkshire.co.uk or email info@techfirstyorkshire.co.uk to book a workshop.