Empire Code | Education Blog | Sharing Our Daily Challenges As Educators

Unlocking STEM Potential: Empire Code’s FIRST LEGO League Training Program for Young Innovators

Introduction

Empire Code has been a beacon of excellence in robotics and coding, guiding young minds to success in the FIRST LEGO League (FLL) competitions for the past four years. This blog delves into the Empire Code FIRST LEGO League Training program, exploring its impact on students’ skills in robotics and coding and highlighting the benefits of participation for their academic and future careers. Discover how Empire Code’s structured training prepares students for success in national competitions and boosts their Direct School Admission (DSA) prospects.

Empire Code’s Achievements in FIRST LEGO League

Empire Code teams have consistently excelled in the FIRST LEGO League with remarkable achievements over the past two years:

Champion and 1st Runner Up Titles in the Explore Category.
Finalists in the Challenge Category. These accomplishments underscore Empire Code’s commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a competitive spirit among young robotics enthusiasts.

Understanding the FIRST LEGO League

The FIRST LEGO League, organized by Duck Learning, is a prestigious national robotics competition known across primary and secondary schools in Singapore. It comprises two main categories:

FIRST LEGO League Explore (Ages 6-9):
- Lower Primary kids work in a team of 5 to create a LEGO prototype and presentation aligned with the annual theme.
- Students use LEGO SPIKE Essentials to develop their projects and present them to judges.
FIRST LEGO League Challenge (Ages 9-12):
- Upper primary kids work in a team of 5 and use LEGO SPIKE Prime to build robots that autonomously solve missions within a set time.
- In addition to robot games, students create an innovation project to solve a given mission.

Comprehensive 40-Hour Training Program

Empire Code’s comprehensive training program ensures participants are well-prepared for FLL competitions. Here’s how it works:

Pre-Requisites:
Completion of LEGO SPIKE Essentials Level 1 & 2 or LEGO SPIKE Prime Level 1 & 2, depending on the competition category.
Team Formation:
- Students are grouped into teams of 5 based on their training availability and skill dynamics.
Intensive Training:
- Over 3-4 months, teams work on preparing their robots and presentations under the guidance of experienced trainers. Parents will also receive biweekly feedback regarding the team’s progress.
Skill Development:
- Participants learn advanced robotics techniques, including gyro movement, autonomous coding, and line following, which are necessary, especially for students interested in the DSA route via robotics.

Skill Development and Benefits

Participating in robotics competitions offers numerous benefits:

Skill Enhancement:
- Hands-on experience in coding, robotics, and problem-solving.
- Development of soft skills such as teamwork, communication, and presentation abilities.
Resilience and Innovation:
- Competitions teach students to think on their feet and develop creative solutions under pressure.
- Students learn to handle setbacks and persist in finding effective solutions.
Competitive Edge for DSA Applications:
- The skills and experiences gained from robotics competitions help students stand out in DSA applications.
- Winning awards significantly enhances a student’s DSA application.
- Participation in nationally recognized competitions demonstrates a commitment to excellence and a passion for STEM fields.

The Empire Code Advantage

Empire Code’s trainers have extensive experience in preparing students for robotics competitions, providing a supportive and successful environment for participants. The 40-hour training program covers both technical and soft skills, ensuring well-rounded development.

Hear from our teachers: Sherine and Aaron

Sherine and Aaron, Empire Code’s competition managers, highlight the transformative impact of these competitions on young students. They emphasize how the challenges faced during competitions help students develop resilience and problem-solving skills, fostering a competitive edge and potential in kids, preparing them for future academic and career endeavors.

Hear from our parents: Angela

“As parents, we were impressed by the dedication and expertise of the coaches who worked with Aiden and his teammates. They provided valuable guidance and instruction on the technical aspects of robotics and programming, fostering a supportive and collaborative team environment that helped bring out the best in our son and his peers. We are proud of the hard work and commitment that Aiden put into this endeavor, and we are grateful for the school’s role in supporting his passion for robotics and STEM education. Thank you again for the invaluable support and resources provided to Aiden and his team. We look forward to continued collaboration with the school in fostering a love of learning and discovery in our children.”

Conclusion

Empire Code’s FIRST LEGO League training program offers students an unparalleled opportunity to excel in robotics and coding competitions. The skills learned and experiences gained not only prepare them for success in FLL but also provide a significant advantage in DSA applications. With Empire Code’s dedicated trainers and proven track record, students are well-equipped to achieve their full potential and make their mark in the world of robotics, building long-lasting memories with their teammates throughout the competition.

Enroll in Empire Code’s FIRST LEGO League training program today and embark on a journey of learning, innovation, and success. Empower your child with the skills and confidence to excel in robotics competitions and beyond. If your child is interested in joining FIRST LEGO League 2025, please contact us at +65 8145 5004.

Boost Your DSA Success with the Hwa Chong Infocommunications Challenge: Empire Code’s Comprehensive Training Program

What is the Hwa Chong Infocommunications Challenge?

The Hwa Chong Infocommunications Challenge is a prestigious annual competition aimed at sparking interest in info-communications among Primary 6 students. This competition is a significant stepping stone for those aiming for Direct School Admission (DSA) to top secondary schools in Singapore.

Why This Challenge is Crucial for DSA Aspirants?

The Hwa Chong Infocommunications Challenge is not just any coding competition. It encompasses various aspects of technology and engineering, pushing students to demonstrate proficiency in:

Python Coding: Participants solve problems using Python, a versatile and widely-used programming language.
Robotics and Microcontrollers: Participants address challenges related to the coding and engineering of robotics and microcontrollers/electronics.
Programming Logic: The competition also tests students on computational and logical thinking through pseudocoding and more.

Detailed Competition Structure

The competition is structured like an exam comprising two sections:

Multiple-Choice Questions: The first section includes 15 multiple-choice questions.
Open-Ended Questions: The second section tests programming knowledge in Python through open-ended questions.

Students receive awards (platinum, gold, silver, bronze, and participation) based on their total marks.

How Participation Enhances DSA Applications

Participating in this competition can significantly enhance a student’s DSA application. As the competition tests a wide variety of skills in the field of coding, robotics, and infocomm, the skills and achievements demonstrated during the challenge are highly regarded by top secondary schools, including Hwa Chong Institution, providing a competitive edge in the admissions process.

Empire Code’s Proven Success in Training Students

This year, Empire Code has made remarkable strides in preparing students for the Hwa Chong Infocommunications Challenge. We trained 10 students specifically for this competition, and their success speaks volumes about our effective training methods. Among our students:

1 Platinum Award
1 Gold Award
1 Silver Award
2 Bronze Awards (+1 Bronze Award*)

These achievements are not just a testament to the students’ hard work but also highlight the quality of training and preparation provided by Empire Code.

*The parent has decided not to disclose their child’s name.

Expanding Training Programs for Primary 6 Students

In our ongoing commitment to nurturing young talent, Empire Code is excited to announce that we will be opening our training programs to all Primary 6 students interested in participating in the Hwa Chong Infocommunications Challenge 2025. This initiative aims to:

Enhance Coding and Robotics Skills: Students will have the opportunity to deepen their understanding of coding and robotics, building stronger logical and computational thinking skills.
Prepare for Competitions: Our structured training will prepare students not only for the Hwa Chong Infocommunications Challenge but also for other similar competitions, broadening their horizons and improving their chances of success in DSA applications.
Provide a Competitive Edge to DSA Applications: By joining our HCIC training program, students have a higher chance of winning awards, which can boost their portfolio for DSA admissions.

Key Benefits of Empire Code’s Training Program

Comprehensive Curriculum: Our 20-hour training program covers all essential topics required for the Hwa Chong Infocommunications Challenge. From Python coding to robotics and programming logic, we ensure that students are well-prepared and confident. We also provide in-house mock papers created by our experienced trainers, giving students extra practice to ensure they are well-prepared for the competition.
Experienced Instructors: Our instructors are industry experts with extensive experience in teaching and mentoring young students. They provide personalized attention and tailored learning plans to meet each student’s unique needs.
Proven Track Record: With a proven track record of success, as evidenced by the awards our students have won, Empire Code is a trusted name in preparing students for competitive challenges and DSA applications.

Join Empire Code to Maximize Your Child’s Potential

The Hwa Chong Infocommunications Challenge offers a fantastic opportunity for primary school students to showcase their skills and enhance their DSA applications. With the support and training provided by Empire Code, students can maximize their potential and achieve remarkable success. We invite all interested Primary 6 students to join our training program and embark on a journey of learning, growth, and achievement.

If your child will be in P6 next year and is interested in joining this competition training program, please contact us at +65 8145 5004.

Benefits of Joining Competitive Robotics Competitions

Robotics plays a pivotal role in today’s technological landscape, streamlining tasks and paving the way for innovative solutions. From household robots to robotic arms used in surgery, robotics is revolutionizing how we interact with the world. This blog outlines four main benefits that competitive robotics competitions offer to primary school children, emphasizing the essential skills they cultivate for their character development, technical skills, and also for future secondary school DSA applications.

1. Master Engineering and Programming Skills

Robotics is not just about building with LEGO; it combines engineering skills and coding skills to create a moving robot that you can control to perform certain tasks more efficiently. At Empire Code, we use LEGO SPIKE Essentials and LEGO SPIKE Prime in our robotics classes, where students learn about different types of sensors, motors, gyro movement, and coding specific to robotics. Once students learn the basic robotics and coding skills, they can apply what they have learned in competitive robotics competitions. These competitions offer hands-on experience with technology, fostering technical skills alongside creativity and critical thinking. Such competitions usually require students to build an autonomous robot that can solve as many missions in a playfield within a given time (usually 2-3 minutes). Hence, students need to strategize in building their base robots and attachments, coding it to move fast and efficiently, and strategizing their game plan so that it can solve a few missions within a few moves. Through such competitions, children grasp the intricacies of how things work, nurturing their technical skills especially in engineering and programming.

2. Enhancing Collaboration and Teamwork

In robotics competitions, students are usually grouped in teams of 2-5, fostering collaboration. Participants engage in team-based challenges, honing their abilities to lead, communicate, coordinate, and collaborate effectively. During these robotics competitions, each student also has specific parts to present and roles to play during the robot games. This collaborative environment allows students to learn vital life skills including time management, emotional regulation, and leadership. The journey through robotics competitions is one of mutual learning and respect, with each team member contributing to and benefiting from the collective effort.

3. Cultivating Problem-Solving and Creative Thinking

At the heart of robotics is the development of problem-solving and creative thinking skills. Students will inevitably face problems along the way, such as the robot not working as expected or the codes having errors. Hence, children will need to approach the problems methodically, breaking them down into manageable parts and applying logical reasoning to create effective solutions to solve problems. This discipline teaches them that there are numerous ways to solve a problem, promoting flexibility in thought and the courage to experiment. In robotics and programming, failure is not a setback but also a stepping stone to innovation, empowering students to be open to everyone’s ideas and embrace challenges together.

4. Increasing Chances of a Successful DSA Application

In an era where STEM education is increasingly recognized for its importance, early exposure to robotics provides children with a solid foundation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. If your child is interested in robotics and STEM, you can consider applying them to secondary schools under these specific DSA tracks. Joining robotics competitions will help your child (1) discover their passion for robotics and STEM and (2) increase their chances of a successful DSA application, as they can showcase their skills and dedication to these talent tracks to potential schools.

In conclusion, competitive robotics competitions offer many benefits, and children develop a myriad of skills that are crucial for future success, including technical skills, teamwork, problem-solving, and creativity. Moreover, the experience gained from robotics competitions is invaluable for DSA applications, highlighting a child’s commitment to and proficiency in such disciplines. By encouraging participation in competitive robotics, we are not only fostering a generation of tech-savvy individuals but also paving the way for their bright futures.

The two main national robotics competitions that you can consider for your child are (1) FIRST LEGO League Explore and Challenge and (2) National Robotics Competition. Such competitions have both lower and upper primary age categories, so your child as young as 7 can get his/her first robotics competition experience through these competitions. To find out more details on how competitions increase their chances of getting in through DSA robotics/STEM/innovation, you can contact our friendly consultant for a DSA consultation and plan out your child’s learning journey together.

Click on other categories below to view previous articles that may be of interest:

Title: Integrating Coding and Robotics in Singapore’s Education System: A Comparative Study

Digital literacy is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity. As technology and AI continue to shape our job landscapes, having a foundation in computational thinking becomes crucial for future employability. Due to the emergence of technology-related fields such as Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence, the global interest in integrating computational thinking and programming into academia has surged in the past few years. This article explores Singapore’s approach to integrating coding and robotics across various educational levels, highlighting their strategies and initiatives.

Comparison with Other Countries

Countries such as England, Finland, Japan, and Korea have made computational thinking skills and programming compulsory in education. England, for example, is one of the first countries to integrate programming into its K-12 curriculum through programs that train students to create simple programs to achieve specific goals, for example. In contrast, Singapore strategically introduces CT skills at various stages, focusing on fostering interest rather than mandatory education.

Coding Education in Singapore

In response to Singapore’s Smart Nation initiative, various programs have been implemented to integrate programming at different education levels. The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) introduced the Playmaker initiative, engaging preschoolers in CT through electronic toys like Beebot, Circuit Stickers, and Kibo.

After-school enrichment programs in some preschools use hands-on activities with tools like ScratchJr, Kubo, and Cubetto. For primary schools, IMDA’s Code For Fun Enrichment program exposes students to visual programming tools and robotics in workshops like Scratch, Micro:bit, and Minecraft coding. Primary schools offer computing-related CCAs, such as robotics or infocomm clubs, which aim to foster students’ skills in these areas. They also provide opportunities for students to represent their schools in national coding and robotics competitions such as FIRST LEGO League (FLL) or Coding Olympics (organized by Science Centre). At the secondary school level, they offer computing-related CCAs, Applied Learning Programs (ALPs), and ‘O’ level computing, focusing on Python programming and computational thinking. Currently, 15% of secondary schools are offering computing as an ‘O’ level subject.

Singapore’s Approach in Computing

Unlike countries making coding education compulsory, Singapore adopts an opt-in model, allowing schools to decide on CT programs based on students’ needs. Teachers continuously undergo training to guide students in CT and programming. Primary and secondary students have Direct School Admission tracks in various computation related areas such as coding, robotics, STEM, innovation and infocomm, encouraging them to apply to top schools even before the PSLE, alleviating the stress of the PSLE exams. In Polytechnics, there is also the Early Admission Program (EAE) for polytechnics that allows secondary students to apply through their portfolios.

Benefits of Learning Computational Thinking

Computational thinking is widely applicable in math, science, and social science. According to a survey by IMDA, ‘O’ level computing students mentioned that they can apply problem-solving skills learned in computing to real-life situations, breaking down problems into manageable parts. Learning CT enhances creativity as students actively engage in designing and making projects, gaining confidence in problem-solving and creating based on their ideas.

Summary

In conclusion, Singapore uniquely integrates programming in school education, focusing on generating interest and providing diverse learning experiences from an early age. Parents can expose their kids to coding and robotics, potentially benefiting their education and future opportunities. By allowing schools to opt into CT programs and fostering collaboration among stakeholders, Singapore aims to build a future-ready workforce with necessary digital literacy skills.

If you’re interested in trying out coding and robotics for your child, or want to find out more about our competitions and DSA program, contact our friendly consultants in Empire Code through WhatsApp. For MOE teachers seeking vendors for programming workshops or competition training for ALP/Code For Fun/ad-hoc school workshops, visit our MOE workshop page for a free consultation and view our track record.

Sources:
(1) https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-981-13-6528-7_19#:~:text=Unlike%20countries%20like%20Finland%2C%20England,ages%2C%20as%20shown%20in%20Fig.

(2) https://www.imda.gov.sg/resources/blog/blog-articles/archived/2017/11/computational-thinking-for-every-student#:~:text=Distilled%20down%20to%20its%20most,or%20a%20human%20following%20instructions.

Tips For Parents: Increasing The Chances Of A Successful DSA Application

Is your child interested in coding, robotics, STEM or innovation and aspires to excel in these fields? The Direct School Admissions (DSA) program is the perfect opportunity for your child to leverage on these skills, apply to top secondary schools and secure a spot in these specialized programs, bypassing the traditional PSLE route. As the DSA program is highly competitive, it’s essential to prepare thoroughly to create a comprehensive portfolio and help your child refine their skills for DSA assessments and interviews. Here are some tips for parents, to support their child in acing DSA assessments and interviews for coding, robotics and STEM-focused schools.

1. Guild your child in choosing the right track

Begin by discussing with your child, which track they would like to pursue for the DSA program. There are 3 key requirements schools will look for in a DSA application, namely: good competition experience, a personalized portfolio, and a well-prepared interview. However, beyond the documents that you need to submit, your child needs to be genuinely interested in the area that he/she is applying for DSA. Consider these essential criteria before deciding to apply through the DSA route.

2. Research and find out more about the DSA program

Ensure that you take the time to research about the school’s requirements for their DSA program under coding, robotics or STEM. Understand the competitions, CCAs and special programs offered by the school, attend open houses or seek input from friends and family whose children are in the school’s DSA program. You may consider enrolling your child in enrichment centres with reputable DSA programs that can tailor your child’s portfolio according to the requirements of the schools.

3. Building a strong portfolio

Work with your child and teachers to create a portfolio showcasing their passion for coding, robotics and STEM. This might include projects like creating apps, robots or websites that contribute to the community or environment. Students should be encouraged to join national competitions to demonstrate dedication and willingness to face challenges as well. At Empire Code, we provide guidance based on school requirements and students’ experiences. This ensures every child’s portfolio is catered to the preferences of your preferred schools.

4. Strengthening technical skills

Coding and robotics require technical expertise. If your child gets shortlisted, your child will need to attend their interviews or robotics/coding tests in multiple rounds. Help your child practice their basic coding foundations, logic tests, and robotics projects to ace their hands-on skills.

5. Preparing for interviews

Clear communication skills are essential during interviews. Practice basic interview questions with your child, which includes introducing themselves, discussing motivations, aspirations, & challenges faced during their coding journey. Students are encouraged to highlight experiences from competitions, extracurricular activities (CCAs) and personal projects. Ensure that they can explain their thought processes coherently and consistently. During interviews, judges often seek passionate candidates who align with the school’s culture. Furthermore, stay informed about coding trends, technological advancements and current news to demonstrate dedication to the field. Ultimately, encourage authenticity and self-confidence during the interview day.

By following these guidelines, there is a higher chance to secure a spot in your child’s dream school. This is a good opportunity to develop your child’s skills and showcase your child’s passion in coding, robotics and STEM. At Empire Code, you can know more about the DSA program through our monthly free open house info-sessions, or schedule a free phone call with us.

Benefits of Competitions for Direct School Admission in Singapore

In Singapore, the Direct School Admission (DSA) Program gives primary 6 students a head start to gain admission to popular secondary schools, prior to the PSLE examinations. Different secondary schools seek admission through talent areas outside of academic performance such as arts, music, coding and robotics. Examples of popular secondary schools that offer DSA under coding, robotics, innovation, infocomm and STEM are HwaChong Institution, St. Joseph Institution, Nanyang Girls’ Secondary School, Methodist Girls’ High and many more.

If you are looking to start building your child’s DSA portfolio, one aspect that plays a crucial role in the DSA application process are competitions. Participating in various national and international competitions offer various benefits that increase students’ chances of success, whilst contributing to character development, and growth of soft skills. In this article, we will explore some advantages of competitions for Direct School Admissions application in Singapore.

1)Showcasing Talents and Achievements

Competitions train students to think beyond the classroom and provide a platform for them to use what they have learnt in the classroom to real-world challenges. In all fields, competitions allow students to demonstrate their abilities and talents. DSA schools look for students who stand out from others, therefore, participating in many competitions shows the level of achievement and dedication the child has in that particular field. If the child wins the competition, it will also significantly enhance the student’s profile during the shortlisting process.

2)Encouraging Skill and Character Growth

Competitions offer an excellent opportunity for students to develop and refine a wide range of skills. For example, in normal robotics classes, students understand the basics of building and coding a robot, or complete tasks such as line following and many more. In national competitions, students are challenged to use these skills that they have learnt and create a robot that can effectively solve several missions within a limited time period. Furthermore, competitions enhance critical thinking, effective problem solving, communication and teamwork. This development of soft skills are not only important for academic success but also personal growth.

3)Increased Self-Confidence and Exposure to Healthy Competition

Competing in various competitions expose students to healthy competition and prepares them for challenges they may face in the academic and working world. It teaches them how to handle pressure, manage their emotions and perform under stress. By engaging in competitions, students learn how to set their own goals and achieve them. Furthermore, coding and robotics competitions usually require students to present their work in front of panelists. This allows students to refine their public speaking and presentation skills, which are crucial during DSA interviews. Students who participate in various competitions will experience both victories and failures. Over time, they will learn how to handle victories, gain self esteem, and also handle failures and build resilience. Such skills will develop a student both academically and personally.

In conclusion, competitions play a crucial role in the DSA exercise as they help to showcase students’ talents beyond the classroom. This helps to increase their chances of success to secure a spot in a desired school. Furthermore, competitions also give students invaluable life skills, develop resilience and time management. These skills and experiences will definitely help them during their DSA interviews as well. They can use the experiences that they have learnt in competitions to showcase both technical and soft skills. Lastly, the soft skills that students learn from joining competitions will also help them to prepare for the working world.

If you’re looking to enroll your child for competitions, whether it’s for his/her DSA portfolio or for the educational experience, check out our 2023 and 2024 competitions here.

DSA for Your Preferred Secondary School – via Coding, Robotics and STEM

Does your child have a passion for coding, robotics and STEM? Imagine the incredible opportunity for your child to pursue his/her interests in these fields while gaining admission to top secondary schools in Singapore through the Direct School Admission (DSA) process. Top secondary schools in Singapore such as SJI, ACS, MGS, Hwa Chong and River Valley High are now accepting students via DSA under coding, robotics and STEM tracks. Furthermore, there are specialized schools like the School of Science and Technology (SST) that exclusively admits students under DSA. As the annual DSA cycle starts again, it’s the perfect time to explore your child’s talents and interests.

Apply to top secondary schools via a DSA portfolio with us!

Building a DSA portfolio with Empire Code offers the following advantages:

1. A Structured DSA Program:

Empire Code offers a comprehensive DSA program tailored to the specific requirements of the schools that you choose. Our program will cover all the necessary modules and competitions required. We understand the importance of competitions in building a strong portfolio, and our DSA students receive priority access to participate in both coding and robotics competitions. With dedicated trainers who possess years of competition experience, your child will receive specialized training to excel in these competitions.

2. Personalized Roadmaps:

At Empire Code, we have a team of DSA specialists who curate personalized roadmaps based on your child’s needs. Through our extensive database, we have gathered specific requirements from schools, including data from school open houses and previous experiences of our students. This allows us to design a roadmap that maximizes your child’s chances of success.

3. Project Write-Ups:

For students applying to SST and innovation tracks (such as SJI), we assist in training our students to create their own project write-ups. Our program trains students to research global issues, such as sustainability, and innovate projects to address these challenges. These project write-ups will then be put together to form a portfolio to be sent to the school of choice. This exercise nurtures critical thinking, innovation and problem-solving skills.

4. Flexible and Individualized Learning:

Empire Code offers flexi-hour weekly classes to accommodate your busy schedule. Our classes are designed for individualized learning, allowing students to progress at their own pace. Each coding module follows a structured program with predefined projects and milestones. Our trainers are adept at managing different learning paces and provide personalized guidance to every student.

5. Accredited and Approved Trainers

Empire Code Education is an approved private school by the Singapore Ministry of Education (MOE). Our teachers hold MOE approvals and Microsoft Minecraft Education certifications, enabling them to teach in local and private schools. We also have a team of software engineers that help to build our curriculum, ensuring that whatever your child learns will be relevant to the current industry.

6. Comprehensive Support:

Our package includes more than just coding and robotics training. We provide progress reports, testimonials, assessment preparation and interview training. We collaborate with ELITAN English for our interview training, a renowned public speaking center. With the guidance of Mr. Tan, a seasoned expert with years of experience training students from school levels to C-suite executives, your child will be well-prepared for interviews.

We are committed to helping your child gain entry to their dream school, whilst having fun in the learning journey as well. When you enroll in our DSA program, we will plan your child’s learning journey all the way until Primary 6 (year of DSA application). In addition to building a comprehensive portfolio, we also provide preparation for assessments and interviews. To learn more about our DSA program, receive a free consultation with our DSA specialist by filling up the form!

Should my Child do DSA?

With the world becoming increasingly digitized, this has made coding one of the essential skills of the 21st century. As a result, parents have started introducing coding, robotics and STEM activities for students from as young as 3.

You may also have heard of the term “DSA” (Direct Schools Admissions), through schools or fellow parents. As more students develop an interest for Computer Science from a younger age, there are now options to apply to preferred secondary schools via technology-related talent areas including coding, robotics, innovation, electronics, STEM and much more. Such schools aim to nurture an environment for such students to grow their talent and interest through weekly training, and representation of their schools in national or international competitions.

How do I prepare my child for a DSA application?

There are 3 key requirements schools will look for in an application, namely: good competition experience, a personalized portfolio, and a well-prepared interview. These are all important external key areas that will definitely affect the success of your child’s DSA application. However, beyond the documents that you need to submit, I would like to share three essential criteria that you will need to consider before you decide to apply through the DSA route.

1. Interest/Passion

DSA is a program that aims to recognise students with not just talent, but also a strong interest in a specific area that will be developed through the school’s programs. Some schools even curate CCAs specifically for DSA students. Thus, the most important factor to consider is your child’s passion and level of interest in an area. Whether it be coding or robotics, successful DSA students share the same traits: they are passionate, ambitious and independent learners with a curious mind.

Here are some questions to think about before committing your child to a DSA program:

1. Is my child consistently motivated to come for class, or does he/she find ways to avoid coming to class?

2. Does my child show enthusiasm to practice his/her codes at home?

3. Is my child excited about the learning process, and out of curiosity, create his/her own apps or programs at home?

If a child is accepted through DSA for a certain talent track, there is a rather high level of commitment to undertake to the school; Therefore, it is important to have an open discussion with your child regarding their interests and area of pursuit. At day’s end, we want the children to find purpose and success in the DSA area they are keen to apply for.

2. Attitude

The mindset of the child is one of the most important characteristics that DSA schools look out for in their pool of applicants. As much as DSA schools are looking for talented individuals with sky high grades or amazing portfolios, they also look at whether your child has good character, is a team player, and has the willingness to learn.

While medals and certificates can be reflectors of success; A key indicator of “success” is also reflected in their attitude, level of perseverance, and their progress in an area overtime. Perhaps, they have made a statement such as, “I managed to do this today, I want to continue and try that next.” This is a sign that the child finds meaning in the activity and is motivated to take this further.” – Mr Chia, Cedar Girls’ Secondary School (DSA Social Innovation)

This will be shown in their assessments or interviews. Some schools will ask a group of applicants to work together in a team to discuss a certain topic, or create a certain robot according to the problem statement provided. The panelists will then be able to gauge your child’s level of perseverance, their capacity to work in a team, alongside important attributes such as logical & critical thinking skills- factors necessary for a successful DSA application.

3. Aptitude

It is important to note that DSA is a very competitive program, with only 10% of DSA students getting their preferred slot through DSA for the past few years. The number of DSA students are also predicted to increase in the upcoming years. The secondary schools will choose the best students, whom they feel will represent their school in the best way possible, in the respective talent areas. Thus, it is important to consider your child’s aptitude, before deciding whether they should apply for DSA.

After discussions with your child, and if you feel that he/she has the interest, attitude and aptitude for a DSA route, the Empire Code DSA team will work together with you to curate a personalized portfolio for your child’s application to the school. We are also able to provide many opportunities through projects and competitions that will give your child real-world experience and a chance to apply what they have learnt in the classroom as well. Furthermore, we aim to provide a safe space for your child to learn, develop their interest, and grow through mistakes throughout their DSA application process. Register for a free DSA consultation now at: https://empirecode.co/dsa/.

To celebrate the new school year 2023, we are pleased to offer a $50 off your first DSA Package. WhatsApp us on +65 8145 5004 for a free consultation and mention our special code DSA50!

Coding, Robotics and STEM

In the last few years, the terms “Coding”, “Robotics” and “STEM” have become ubiquitous, and you’ve likely heard of it one way or another. With the rise of technology in the digital age, along with the plethora of coding and robotics enrichment programmes, the common question is “What’s the difference between these fields? Is it useful for my child’s educational journey?”. This post aims to share the key differences between coding, robotics and STEM, its crucial role in ensuring technical literacy, and how they can benefit your child’s education.

First off, what is Coding?

Coding is a language – we tell computers what to do using codes. You’ve probably heard of Python or Javascript, which are called syntax programming. In this current age, coding has been simplified, so that children as young as 4 can grasp the concepts with ease. Known as block-based programming, it aims to introduce computational thinking to very young learners, (thus building on their foundations), so that their progress to syntax programming at a later age (text-based languages), will be a more fluid process.

If you have heard of Scratch (the popular MIT software with the orange cat as its beloved mascot), it is a popular example of block-based programming. Children learn how to create their own animations and mini-games through dragging and dropping the code blocks. In addition to learning the various coding concepts, their brains are trained to think logically, computationally, and critically. We also teach students how to debug their codes independently; this stimulates the different areas of the brain, where they are trained to solve problems creatively, and view the obstacles through different lenses. For younger learners, progression from block-based programming such as Tynker and Scratch, is transitioned to game development modules such as Minecraft Education Edition, and Roblox Game Development; from here, students would then progress to more complex text-based programming languages like Python and C++. These languages open up a wide array of career opportunities – from web and app development to data science and machine learning.

Then, how about Robotics?

What comes to your mind when you first hear the term robotics? For most people, it is LEGO. However, robotics goes beyond just building a prototype. Robotics deal with designing and building robots, and utilisation of various sensors and motors, for optimal functioning. These sensors and motors are usually connected to a device, in which students learn programming to control the robots to create an action, so as to respond to a certain input. Hence, the line between coding and robotics is sometimes a bit gray. The main difference is that coding is mainly based on software, but robotics includes both software and hardware. However, both of these fields fall and interact under the STEM category.

What is STEM?

STEM (or STEAM) is an interdisciplinary teaching approach that unites the disciplines of science, technology, engineering (art,), and math into a single program. Although it emphasizes heavily on science and math, STEM is a very broad umbrella of different programs with the same goal – to provide students with engaging and hands-on methods of learning to develop science and math-based skills, so that they can gain 21st century skills such as communication, critical thinking, computational thinking, problem solving, and most importantly, contribute to a technologically-driven society.

Hence, coding and robotics also fall under this STEM category. Math and Science can be integrated into game development platforms as well as robotics. For example, you can learn chemistry concepts in Minecraft: Education Edition using their chemistry lab. Minecraft provides a variety of chemicals that work the same way as the real world, which allows for students to learn science concepts in a more fun and engaging way. In the same way, you can use LEGO SPIKE Prime (robotics) to create a robot that transfers energy from one place to another. Such projects also integrate engineering and science concepts, which are part of the school curriculum.

In other words, STEM education aims to go beyond the traditional academic approach and provides students the tools and opportunities to apply what they have learnt to solve real-world problems. For example, instead of learning the instructions for creating a robot, and the geography and physics of an earthquake, STEM education allows students to apply the knowledge to create an earthquake simulator using LEGO, for example, and tests how much force is required to make a LEGO brick house fall down. Projects like these allow students to use cross-disciplinary knowledge (from coding, to robotics and engineering) to solve problems creatively (for example, how can we make the foundation of the house stronger, so as to withstand the force of an earthquake).

Not sure where to start?

It depends on your child’s preference. Some students prefer robotics due to its hands-on learning nature, where they can see the physical result of their projects immediately. Coding, on the other hand, is intangible. However, you can create your own websites, analyze real-world data, and design your own mobile apps and games. Both of these disciplines still have the same goals in mind – to teach students the necessary 21st century skills and prepare them for the digitized future ahead of them.

In Empire Code, we offer modules across these different disciplines. You can let your child try out coding and robotics through our free trial classes. Contact us at +65 8154 5004 to find out more!

A Parent’s Guide to DSA – How to Prepare Your Kids Better for Secondary School Applications

Does your child have a talent or interest for sports, music, leadership or coding? The Direct School Admission Programme might be the key pathway to expand your child’s talent and get into specialized schools at the same time. It allows students to apply to secondary schools based on outstanding performance in both academic or non-academic talent areas (eg. sports, music, etc.). Schools that are under the DSA track offer special clubs to cater to the students’ talent areas and foster their growth. Whether it is through weekly training, or representing the school in competitions, the schools provide DSA students with various opportunities to grow and compete in both national and international competitions.

Furthermore, with the implementation of the new PSLE scoring system, the DSA route has proved to be a popular choice amongst parents. Due to the rising competition amongst PSLE students to secure a slot in their preferred secondary schools, parents are more likely to opt for the DSA scheme. Here are the 5 primary things you need to know about the DSA programme:

How do you prepare your kids better for DSA applications?

The best advice that we can give is to start planning early. If your child is considering applying to a secondary school via the DSA route, it is better to start planning and compiling his/her portfolio early. DSA is not just an accumulation of certificates and result slips, but it is a proper compilation of different school and non-school related achievements, competitions and projects. In 2022, out of 37,095 students sitting for PSLE, there were 31,800 DSA applications from 12,200 students, across talent areas with 3,900 successfully getting their secondary school slots. Hence, DSA applications should be carefully prepared in order to increase your child’s chances to go to his/her preferred secondary schools.

Through the Empire Code DSA program, we offer DSA preparation programme in areas such as coding, robotics, STEM, innovation and many more. Our programme consists of creating a customized roadmap for your child, 1 to 1 consultations, progress reports, portfolio compilation, student testimonies and so forth. The school’s program aims to ensure that students are well prepared before they apply for DSA in Primary 6. The DSA application journey is also designed to ensure that students enjoy and have fun learning through the process as well. If interested, contact us here to register for a free DSA consultation.

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