I've raised £500 to provide a free course for local schools teaching the basics of animatronics. The aim is to create kits that children of all ages can build.

I am qualified in electronics and micro processors, but have spent most of my career in, electrical installation and repair work as an electrician. Back in September 2016 I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis so I have had to stop doing the electrical work as I am no longer safe on ladders. As I have extra time on my hands I have been working on animatronic projects, creating eyes, mouths and heads with servo controllers being driven by Arduino microprocessors. My wife works at a local school and when she saw some of my creations suggested that I could produce a course for the children in the school, to give them the chance to learn the basics of animatronics and robotic construction. With this in mind I have designed a course that will stimulate interest in this subject by students building their own prosthetic hand, and then have it controlled by a microprocessor, which they will learn to program. So the students will get an insight into to creating the hand mechanism as well as the opportunity to see how microprocessors are used in automation.
I am providing my skills and time to run the course free of charge, but as schools are limited in the funds they have available I am looking for the support of the community to help fund the cost of materials so that I can realise this project and help inspire young minds for the positive. If I receive enough support it is planned to expand the project to include a summer workshop that will involve a larger base of children keeping at least some off the streets getting up to mischief. My health may have failed but my mind is active and I want to have a positive influence on my local community. Please help my realise this worthy cause,