How Coding and Robotics Activities are Shaping the Future of South African (2025)

Tagged topics: AIEducation Technology

What is robotics and coding? In South African schools, Coding and Robotics Education is all about helping students build important tech skills that can set them up for success. This new subject introduces learners to basic programming, how to think in steps to solve problems (that’s called algorithmic thinking), and how to design and work with simple robots. At Twinkl, we offer a wonderful variety of coding and robotics activities, coding and robotics lesson plans, decoding worksheets, and more to support your child's learning.

As South Africa moves towards a more digital economy, the demand for skills in robotics is likely to increase, creating more job opportunities in tech-related fields. Introducing children to robotics early on gives them an advantage and opens up many future career paths in a variety of industries.

The Department of Basic Education sees Coding and Robotics for kids as a way to prepare learners for today’s world. It’s all about developing skills like creative thinking, problem-solving, and understanding how technology works. Our decoding worksheets, pattern worksheets, algorithm games, and other coding and robotics activities are here to assist your learners.

In Coding and Robotics, students learns about theory to answer questions like "What is a robot?". But they also get hands-on experience, which makes learning more exciting and relevant. They’ll work together, generate ideas, and practice critical thinking skills that are key to future careers in a tech-focused world. Our pattern worksheets are here to assist with foundational understanding to help bring the learner to build resilience.

This subject aims to spark curiosity and empower learners to be more than just users of technology. With Coding and Robotics, students are encouraged to become creators, innovators, and active problem-solvers, ready to make a difference in society.

Key Components of Coding and Robotics

1. Coding: Students get to learn programming languages and how to write code. This helps them make their software projects or solve specific challenges, which builds both logical thinking and creativity.
2. Robotics: In this part, students design, build, and program robots. It’s a hands-on experience that encourages teamwork, critical thinking, and basic engineering skills.
3. Problem-solving: Through projects, students take on real-world challenges, learning how to think creatively and keep going even when things get tough. This approach helps them develop a problem-solving mindset.
4. Digital literacy: Coding and Robotics teaches essential digital skills that are increasingly important in today’s job market, helping prepare students for future careers in technology.

The Benefits of Learning Coding and Robotics

It helps them become better at solving problems. Students think critically and find creative solutions to real-life problems by learning to tackle challenges step-by-step. They also learn about becoming a digital citizen.

It also boosts creativity. Coding and working with robots allow students to bring their ideas to life, making learning more exciting and building their confidence to create and try new things.

Coding and Robotics encourage teamwork too. Many activities involve working in groups, helping students communicate, share ideas, and reach a common goal together.

Another benefit is that students develop essential tech skills useful in today’s digital world. These skills can give them an advantage in future job markets where technology plays a big role.

Coding and Robotics also teach resilience. With lots of trial and error, students learn to keep trying even when things don’t work right away, building a mindset that values persistence.

Finally, Coding and Robotics prepare students for the jobs of the future. As technology grows, students with these skills will be better equipped for careers in fields likely to expand in the coming years.

Engage your learners with fun robot facts for kids!

Interesting Facts About the New School Subject: Coding and Robotics

These elements illustrate the dynamic and growing focus on Coding and Robotics education in South Africa. Here are some interesting facts about the subject:

Curriculum integration

The Coding and Roboticshas been integrated into the South African school curriculum as part of the "Computational Thinking" initiative, emphasising problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

Our Twinkl Coding and Robotics Curriculum Workbooks have been designed with the CAPS curriculum in mind.

STEM focus

The subject promotes STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education, encouraging interdisciplinary learning and creativity among students.

National programs

The South African government supports various initiatives, such as the "Digital Skills for Youth" program, to enhance coding and robotics education in schools, especially in underprivileged areas.

Competitions and events

Students participate in robotics competitions fostering teamwork and innovation while showcasing their skills on a national and international stage.

Diverse learning tools

Schools use a range of platforms and tools, such as Scratch, Python, and our coding and robotics activities, making coding accessible to various age groups.

Career opportunities

The subject prepares students for future careers in tech, as South Africa has a growing demand for skilled professionals in fields like software development and engineering.

Extracurricular clubs

Many schools have established coding and robotics clubs, providing students with opportunities to further explore their interests outside the classroom.

Teacher training

Professional development programs are available for teachers to enhance their skills in teaching coding and robotics, ensuring effective instruction and curriculum delivery.

Global trends

South Africa is aligning its educational approaches with global trends, recognising the importance of digital literacy in the 21st century.

Community engagement

Schools often collaborate with tech companies and universities to bring real-world insights into the classroom, enhancing students' understanding of the tech industry.

How Can I Phase My Learners into the New Subject?

Phasing learners into the new subject of Coding and Robotics can be achieved through a gradual and structured approach. Start by introducing them to the coding and robotics meaning and basic coding concepts, such as sequences, loops, and algorithms, using age-appropriate language and simple explanations.

Incorporate unplugged activities such as block coding for kids worksheets and pattern worksheets, where learners can engage in hands-on, non-digital tasks to grasp the fundamentals of coding and problem-solving. Teaching them about the components of a computer is obviously also important!

Gradually transition to visual programming tools like coding games for kids and ScratchJr, which allows students to experiment with coding without worrying about complex syntax.

Robotics can be introduced through playful activities, which help learners engagingly explore basic robotics and programming. As their skills develop, incorporate problem-solving challenges that encourage learners to apply coding and robotics concepts.

Cross-curricular learning can also be beneficial, linking coding and robotics activities to subjects like maths and science to highlight practical applications. Once learners show comfort with visual programming and basic robotics, introduce text-based coding and more complex projects.

Encourage collaborative projects to foster teamwork, while regularly assessing progress and adapting lessons to accommodate different learning paces. We have handy coding and robotics lesson plans to help you plan out these lessons.

Finally, engage learners with real-world examples of coding and robotics in everyday life and careers to inspire their interest and demonstrate the subject’s relevance.

How to Make a DIY Robot

Here’s how to make a simple DIY robot:

1. Gather materials: You'll need a small motor, a battery, wires, tape, a small container (like a plastic cup), and some markers or pens for legs.
2. Prepare the container: Turn the container upside down. This will be the body of your robot.
3. Attach the motor: Tape the motor on top of the container. Make sure it’s secure.
4. Connect the wires to the motor: Attach one end of each wire to the motor. Use tape or a connector to keep them in place.
5. Attach the battery: Tape the battery on top of the container near the motor. Connect the other ends of the wires to the battery.
6. Add legs: Tape markers or pens around the container’s edge so that they touch the ground. These will be the robot’s legs.
7. Power up: When you connect the wires to the battery, the motor should start spinning, making the robot move and wiggle around.
8. Decorate: Add googly eyes or draw a face to give your robot some personality.
9. Experiment: Try changing the position of the motor or legs to see how it affects the robot’s movement.
10. Have fun: Enjoy watching your DIY robot come to life!

What is ScratchJr?

ScratchJr is a fun and easy programming tool made especially for young children, typically ages 5 to 7. It introduces them to coding playfully. With ScratchJr, kids use a simple, visual interface where they drag and drop colourful blocks to create stories, games, and animations.

This hands-on approach helps kids build important skills, such as problem-solving and logical thinking. By arranging actions, creating loops, and controlling characters, they start to understand the basics of coding. ScratchJr also encourages creativity and teamwork, as children can express their ideas and even work on projects with friends.

As kids explore and play with ScratchJr, they build a strong foundation in coding concepts, setting them up for more advanced programming later on. ScratchJr not only teaches valuable tech skills but also boosts children's confidence and love for learning through fun activities.

At Twinkl, we have a variety of ScratchJr coding and robotics activities for the kids to enjoy.

*ScratchJr resources will soon be available in the Twinkl South Africa website

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is coding and robotics compulsory in South Africa?

Yes, Coding and Robotics are becoming compulsory in South Africa for certain grades. The Department of Basic Education has started introducing Coding and Robotics as part of the school curriculum. Currently, this subject is being phased into the Foundation Phase (Grades R-3) and the Intermediate Phase (Grades 4-6), with plans to include higher grades in the coming years.

Is robotics in demand in South Africa?

Yes, robotics is in demand in South Africa, especially as technology continues to grow in industries like manufacturing, healthcare, agriculture, and mining. Many companies are looking for people who understand robotics to help automate tasks, improve efficiency, and solve complex problems.

Is robotics a good career?

Yes. Careers in robotics tend to offer competitive salaries, especially as demand for skilled professionals continues to rise.

Read More on Coding and Robotics:

• Why Coding's the Skill of the Future and How it Can Help Your Children
• What Is Coding Week?

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