Algebra & Mathematical Logic
Strengthen your maths brain with number patterns, logic puzzles and algebra challenges that get you ready for higher-level maths.
You will make: your own puzzle book of number riddles to stump your friends.
Equipping young minds in underrepresented communities with STEM and AI skills
Build robots. Train an AI. Crack secret codes. Free STEM clubs for young people in Pilton.
Ages 8 to 18
Free to attend
Starting summer 2027
About Us
At The Cipher Academy CIC, we give young people in Pilton, Edinburgh, hands-on experience of AI and STEM, supported by mentoring that opens doors to further study and careers. We are a community-driven initiative with a global outlook, helping to close local opportunity gaps and address the national shortage of STEM skills. Our mission is to unlock potential through logic, mathematics, physics and AI, nurturing the next generation of thinkers, creators and innovators who will shape the future of technology and society.
Through Logic and Numbers
At The Cipher Academy, our philosophy is built on two timeless pillars, Logic and Numbers. We believe every breakthrough in science, technology, and innovation begins with the ability to reason clearly and think quantitatively. Logic cultivates structured problem-solving and creativity; numbers provide the foundation of mathematics, physics, and data science. Together, they form the basis of the next generation's STEM excellence to not only understand the world but to reinvent it.
Our Programmes
Find my programme
Pick your age and what you enjoy. We will show you the clubs that fit.
I like...
Coding and Logical Thinking
Learn how computers think. Explore algorithms, logic and problem solving, the building blocks of computer science.
You will make: a working computer game you can play and share.
Young Engineers
Design, build, test and improve real creations, from mini bridges and vehicles to circuits and simple machines. Great for teamwork and design thinking.
You will make: a bridge that holds weight and a circuit that lights up.
AI Explorers
Discover how Artificial Intelligence works through guided projects in machine learning, image recognition, chatbots and ethical AI. No coding experience needed, just curiosity.
You will make: an AI that learns to recognise your drawings.
Neural Networks
An advanced programme where you explore how neural networks operate, build simple models and experiment with deep learning. Ideal preparation for university and careers in machine learning and data science.
You will make: your own neural network trained on real data.
Family STEM Days
Weekend days where parents, carers and children learn together through hands-on experiments, challenges and mini workshops, and see what young people have built.
You will make: a family experiment to take home and try again.
No programme matches that exactly yet. Tell us what you are interested in and we will guide you.
Ask us to guide meYour Journey With Us
Start where you are and level up. Each stage earns you a digital badge.
Ages 8 to 12
Logic and Numbers
Patterns, puzzles and maths thinking.
Badge: Pattern Finder
Ages 10 to 14
Coding
Algorithms, games and problem solving.
Badge: Code Builder
Ages 12 to 16
AI Explorers
Machine learning and image recognition.
Badge: AI Explorer
Ages 15 to 18
Neural Networks
Deep learning and real data projects.
Badge: Neural ArchitectYoung Engineers (ages 10 to 15) runs alongside every stage for anyone who loves building things.
Crack the Cipher
Every month we hide a secret message. Can you decode it? Slide the decoder until the message makes sense.
This month's secret message
0
Hint: XLI appears in the message. What is the most common three-letter word in English?
Make your own secret code
This is a Caesar cipher. Julius Caesar used it over 2,000 years ago. Every letter moves along the alphabet by the same number of places. Write a message, pick a shift, and send it to a friend to crack.
3
At our clubs you will learn how modern codes protect your messages, your games and your bank card.
Programme Dates
Upcoming clubs, workshops and family days. Select any event for details.
No sessions scheduled this month yet. Our first programmes begin in summer 2027. Register your interest and we will let you know as soon as dates are confirmed.
Register interestComing up next
AI & Machine Learning
Coding & Logical Thinking
Mathematical Logic
Science & Engineering
Community Events
For Parents and Carers
Everything you need to know before your child joins us.
- Free to attend. Our programmes are funded by grants and donations, so there is no cost to families.
- Safety first. Small groups of no more than 12, clear supervision ratios and a signed in and out system at every session. Read our policies.
- Checked adults. Everyone who works with young people is a member of the PVG Scheme through Disclosure Scotland and completes our safeguarding induction.
- Inclusive. We welcome young people with additional support needs and will talk with you about what helps your child.
- No kit needed. Just bring your curiosity.
When and where will sessions take place?
Sessions will run in Pilton at weekends and during school holidays, starting in summer 2027. We will confirm the venue and times before places open, and families who register interest will hear first.
Does my child need any experience or a laptop?
No. Beginner programmes assume no experience at all, and we provide the equipment used in each session.
Which programme is right for my child?
Use the programme finder, or choose "Not sure yet" when you register and we will help you decide together.
Will food be provided at holiday sessions?
We plan to offer a healthy snack at holiday sessions. Please tell us about any allergies or dietary needs when you enrol.
How do you keep children safe online?
Internet access is supervised at all times, we only use child-safe platforms and filtered connections, and we never store learner data on session devices.
Will you take photos of my child?
Only with your written permission, which we ask for separately for each use. You can change your mind at any time.
How do you use my information?
We only use your details to organise your child's place and keep you informed. We never sell or share them for marketing. See our privacy notice for full details.
Who do I contact if I have a concern?
Contact our Child Protection Lead at info@thecipheracademy.co.uk or call 0131 358 5508. If a child is in immediate danger, call 999.
Who We Are
A small team, rooted in the community we serve.
Emmanuel Uranta, PhD
Founder and Programme Director
A researcher in Artificial Intelligence and Adaptive Systems, whose doctoral research examined how adaptive systems powered by Machine Learning can improve learning outcomes in resource-constrained environments. Our founder also holds degrees in Physics and Internet Application Development (Digital Solutions), and brings experience from technology implementation, consultancy and teaching. He leads and directs every Cipher Academy session.
Local parents on our board
We are building our board with parents from the Pilton community whose children are the same age as our learners, so local families help shape every decision we make.
How we are governedTwo adults, every session
Every session is led by our founder alongside a PVG-checked parent director or parent volunteer. No adult is ever alone with a group.
Become a parent volunteerGet Involved
Support Our Mission
Your donation helps us provide free STEM education to young people in Pilton and beyond.
PayPal
Secure one-off or monthly donations
Buy Us a Coffee
Your Donation Makes a Difference
£35Provides coding materials for one child
£150Sponsors a week of holiday club
£870Funds equipment for a classroom
Contact Us
Register your child's interest for summer 2027, ask a question, or get in touch about volunteering and partnerships.