Skip to content

Let's code

Quick links

Microsoft MakeCode

Microsoft’s MakeCode editor is the perfect way to start programming and get creating with the BBC micro:bit. The colour-coded blocks are familiar to anyone who’s previously used Scratch, and yet powerful enough to access all the features of this tiny computer. You can also switch to JavaScript to see the text-based code behind the blocks.

Our getting started pages will guide you through your first steps.

You can find out more about requirements for using the MakeCode editor in the classroom in the MakeCode FAQ.

students using the Microsoft MakeCode editor with micro:bit

Turn your micro:bit into an animated name badge

Make a simple thermometer with your micro:bit

Count skips, jumps, birds - or anything!

Explore MakeCode projects

Python

Python is a great way to deepen your programming skills through text-based coding. Its natural English-like structure makes it easy to start learning, but it’s also powerful enough to be used in areas like data science and machine learning.

It’s widely used in schools and is supported by a global community of teachers, programmers and engineers. Our Python editor is designed to help teachers and learners get the most out of text-based programming on the micro:bit.

child using micro:bit Python editor

Can't agree on what to do? Let your micro:bit decide!

Make a radio-controlled burglar alarm

Create an automatic light that turns on when it’s dark.

Explore Python projects

Mobile and tablet apps

If you’re using mobile devices like phones or tablets we have iOS and Android apps that let you program your micro:bit using MakeCode. Code is transferred from your mobile device to the micro:bit using a Bluetooth radio connection, so no data cables are needed.

Learn more about mobile apps
Mobile phone and tablet next to micro:bit

Scratch

Scratch is loved by children and adults the world over. For many, Scratch is their first introduction to programming from around age 8 and up.

You can integrate micro:bit into your Scratch projects, turning your micro:bit into a physical game controller, paintbrush, digital scoreboard or more. You’ll need a Windows or macOS (version 10/11) computer with Bluetooth and Scratch Link installed or a Chromebook or mobile device to install the Android app. You can then follow the links below to get started or explore our Scratch projects.

How to use micro:bit with Scratch
pupil using Scratch
Explore Scratch projects

Swift Playgrounds

If you have an Apple iPad or Mac computer with macOS 10.15.3 or later, you can explore the Swift programming language with our Swift Playgrounds interactive book.

Learn more about Swift Playgrounds
Screenshot of micro:bit Swift Playgrounds book

Other editors

There’s a huge community of people making tools for programming and interacting with the micro:bit which means you can program your micro:bit in Python, C++ and other languages, including other block editors.

The editors listed below are not officially supported by the Micro:bit Educational Foundation, so please look for the ‘support’ details in the editors themselves for any questions.