Bletchley Park Inspires Computer Science Learners

Computer Science students at Solihull Sixth Form College visited Bletchley Park recently to learn about the advances in computer science that took place during the Second World War.

Bletchley Park in Milton Keynes was a site of great importance during the war. It was where a team of mathematicians broke the Enigma code to enable them to decipher secret German messages and prevent many attacks. Alan Turing designed a machine called the Bombe, which was able to decode messages by cycling through all possible combinations in about 20 minutes, far faster than would be possible by people. Use of that and a computer called the Colossus were hailed as one of the most significant victories for the Allies during the war.

Learners explored the modern-day Bletchley Park by viewing the interactive displays and museum collections, as well as watching the immersive films set within the restored historic buildings.

Jabran Mohammed, Assistant Curriculum Leader of Media and IT at the College, commented:

"Our young people thoroughly enjoyed their visit to Bletchley Park. It was an opportunity to bring history and the computer science we know today together and show just how far technology has come. Problem-solving and encryption is an important part of their studies, so this historical context is very useful."

Anyone wanting to learn more about our A level Computer Science or BTEC IT courses, as well as a comprehensive list of other A level, BTEC and T level qualifications, is encouraged to book tickets for our Open Evening on Wednesday 27 November. Tickets are free of charge and can be booked at https://www.solihullsfc.ac.uk/applying/open-days. All prospective learners are asked to attend with a parent or other adult.

21 November 2024