Preston Raspberry Jam is a diverse community of people who have been meeting in Preston every month since July 2012 to learn, discover and share the potential of Computing and the Raspberry Pi computer and share our passion for digital making and creativity.

Join in with children, adults, families and teachers from a range of backgrounds, age and experience levels to take part in some free workshops, demonstrations and discussion that focus on some of the following: Raspberry Pi computers, Arduino, Minecraft, Micro:bits, Python, Scratch etc. We positively welcome beginners of all ages who would like to learn more about computers, software, programming or hardware development. No additional equipment is required.

Please note that children must be supervised by an adult at all times. Link to Safeguarding procedures

Typical programme:

6.00-7.15pm: Session 1 - Learn or create something new in a practical hands-on session. This month 7yr old Jay will be leading a practical workshop using The Crumble Controller available from Redfern Electronics. All equipment provided. Ideal for complete beginners, (from age 6 upwards) or somebody who wants to improve their understanding and skills.

7.15-8.00pm: Lightning Talks - Short, ad hoc presentations. We invite all members of our community to tell us about something they've seen, discovered or been working on.

8.00-8.45pm: Session 2 - Hands On. Projects. Demonstrations. Support. Chat. Mingle.

8.45-9.00pm: Pack away and wrap up

9.00-10.00pm: Possible post event meetup for 18+ only at Ale Emporium when there are enough interested.

What does a Preston Raspberry Jam event look like? Every event is different, but you may this 3 minute film [link] gives a good idea of what happens at an event. We offer classes, demonstrations, talks and support. These photo albums from recent events illustrate how every month can be different: Mar 17, Jan17, Dec16, Nov16, Oct16, Jul16, May16, Apr16, Mar16, Feb16, Jan16, Oct15, Sep15, May15, May14, Sep13, Aug13

Getting there - our Jams always take place in UCLan's Creative Innovation Zone (photos) on the 4th floor of UCLan's Media Factory Building which is just off Kirkham Street, Preston. The nearest SATNAV postcode is PR1 2XQ (Google Streetview) or use What 3 Words location http://w3w.co/mole.quiz.yarn. Our venue is just a 7min walk from Preston train station or bus station. Limited parking available on nearby streets from 6pm, check restrictions.

Social Media: You can reach us via social media and invite others using the hashtag #RJam, or through our @PrestonRJam Twitter Account.

This event is supported by UCLan and exa.foundation.