Computer Science Masterclass Day

Get hands-on experience at our Computer Science Masterclass Day where you’ll get to explore encryption and ethical hacking, learn the creative and technical skills needed to build your own games, and discover the different applications of AI and how they are changing our society!

This event is for students in their first and second year of sixth form or college.

Schedule

09:30am: Arrive

10am: Cyber Security: The Art of Digital Defence:

In this action-packed session, you will dive into the world of cyber security and discover how to protect yourself and others in the digital age. Learn how hackers break into systems and how you can become a defender, stopping cyber-attacks in their tracks. With real-life examples, hands-on activities, and fun challenges, you will explore encryption, ethical hacking, and the tricks used by experts to keep data safe. By the end of the session, you will have the skills and knowledge to start thinking like a cyber security pro!

11am: Data Science: Turning Numbers into Insights

Data is everywhere! In this interactive session, you will unlock the secrets hidden within the vast amount of information we produce every day. Learn how data scientists use powerful tools to analyse and make sense of this data, uncovering patterns that can help solve real-world problems. Through exciting activities like analysing trends from social media or sports statistics, you will see how data science is shaping industries and discover why it is one of the most in-demand careers today.

12pm: Lunch

1pm: Game Development: From Concept to Console

Ever wondered how your favourite video games are made? In this thrilling session, you will step into the shoes of a game developer, learning the creative and technical skills needed to build your own games. Discover how developers use coding, graphics, and sound to bring ideas to life. Through fun, interactive activities, you will get the chance to design characters, build levels, and even test your own game mechanics. By the end of the session, you will have a new appreciation for the art and science behind game development, and who knows—you might even create the next big gaming hit.

2pm: AI: The Future of Intelligent Machines

Artificial Intelligence is changing the world, and in this session, you will be at the forefront of that revolution! Explore how AI works, from self-driving cars to smart assistants, and get hands-on with creating your own mini-AI project. You will learn about different applications of AI and how they are changing our society. With a blend of fun demonstrations and engaging coding exercises, this session will leave you inspired and ready to imagine the next great leap in AI.

3pm: End of event

If you’re a teacher or adviser and wish to book a cohort of students to attend this event, please contact us at schools.colleges@stmarys.ac.uk