NewTechKids Wed. EarlyAft. Bootcamp (8-12 Yrs): Sept/Oct 2026 (X5 classes)

After-school bootcamp during which kids ages 8-12 design, build and code robots and tech prototypes. Taught in both Dutch and English.
About this Event

(Bilingual bootcamp taught in a combination of Dutch and English by a professional, native-Dutch speaking teacher. Due to generous corporate donations, subsidized spots are available for children from a low-income families with a Stadspas.)

Theme: Robots Playing Traditional Games

During this early Wednesday afternoon bootcamp of 5 weekly workshops held at the Amsterdam Public Library near Centraal Station, kids ages 8-12 will transform traditional games into robot-powered games.

Using LEGO robotics kits, kids ages will design, build and code a series of robots for dominos, catapults, pinball machines and more. They will create their own game (rules, point system) as their capstone project.

Kids will dive into building and visual programming using LEGO Mindstorms and art supplies. They'll learn about design concepts (resources, requirements, testing, iteration, best practices) and computer science concepts (coding, algorithms, commands, loops, sequence, iteration, if-else logic, etc.).

Classes will take place on Wednesdays in the early afternoon from 2 - 3:30 pm on the following dates:

• September 16 and 23, 2026 (no class on September 30th as OBA celebrates Kinderboekweek with other activities)
• October 7, 21 and 28, 2026 (no class on October 14 due to Herftssvakantie)

This bilingual camp will be taught by a native Dutch-speaking professional teacher or instructor with specialised training in computer science education. The curriculum and workshops are based on NewTechKids’ pedagogy which focuses on concept-context learning and the use of tangible learning tools.

Our camp is ideal for children with no previous exposure to design and computer science and those who have previously participated in NewTechKids programs. Girls are welcome!

A minimum of 14 students is required to offer this bootcamp. Registrants will be notified 3 days prior if the camp is cancelled and a full refund will be provided.

Location: Openbare Bibliotheek Amsterdam, Oosterdokskade 143 in the Junior Lab basement (5-minute walk from Centraal Station)