The micro:bit was originally created as part of the BBC’s Make It Digital initiative, launched in 2014. 29 expert partners came on board, each contributing resources and expertise.

From early 2016, up to 1 million micro:bits were distributed to Year 7 students (or equivalent, aged 11-12), non-formal education settings and libraries across the UK in a project led by BBC Education.

The Micro:bit Educational Foundation was founded in October 2016 with the aim of bringing digital inspiration to students worldwide.