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In this video, I'm going to tell you allabout this little thing, the ����ý micro:bit,and why it would be a great thing to have in your schooland how you can get a set of 30 for free.

I had you at free, didn't I?

The micro:bit is a tiny programmable devicethat helps pupils to understand how computers workand learn to code using the language of computers.

With coding being part of the curriculum across the UKThe micro:bit can provide a really fun, easy, and creative wayof getting pupils using code as well as empowering themwith digital skills and inspiring them for the future.

Now, don't worry if you're not much of a coder,I can explain.So let's take a closer look.

The micro:bit is a piece of hardware.It can only do something when you tell it to,and you do this by writing a computer program using codewhich is called software.Microsoft's MakeCode is one of the most popular toolsto program a micro:bit and it's completely beginner friendly

When your code is ready,transfer it from your computer to the micro:bit with a clickof a button and simple as that it's ready to go.

I've used my micro:bit to make an activity selectorto pick between six random generated activities.

We've made rock, paper scissors using micro:bits.Rock, paper, scissors, shoot.

I've made a wildlife tracker to record how many birdsand squirrels I see using my micro:bit.

Over the last few years, the micro:bit has also been used to programsome pretty epic large-scale stuff too.Things like rotating a telescope at Jodrell Bank Observatoryand turning on the lights at Blackpool Tower.

The ����ý micro:bit was created backin 2015 when a million micro:bits were givento children in secondary schools.

Now, since then, seven and a half million micro:bitshave been made and around42 million children in over 60 countries have used one.

Now the micro:bit is launching in primary schoolsacross the UK, targeting eight to 11 year olds.

UK primary teachers can now register to receive a free packof 30 micro:bits to open up a whole new worldof learning and adventure through coding.

We want teachers to feel fully equippedand supported in using the micro:bit in your classroom.

There'll be free CPD available from the Micro:bit Educational Foundationand more bespoke training from partners across the nations.

And there are loads of easy coding projectsand lesson plans available from the Micro:bit Educational Foundation website.

As well as being a whole lot of fun, the micro:bits help teachersto meet specific curriculum objectives in computing and technology,such as working with inputs and outputs in code,developing debugging skills, and creating algorithms.

The micro:bit can also be used in cross-curricular lessons.You can find inspiration online and lots of easy projects to get startedon the Micro:bit Educational Foundation website,as well as some fantastic new resources on the ����ý from September.

Okay, so how do you get your hands on someof these cheeky little coding machines?

Well, all you have to do is sign up via the link below to receive your packof 30 free micro:bits for your school.

Why not make your school a micro:bit school?