The Siemens Robotics Challenge engages school pupils from four local secondary schools who are interested in STEM subjects from a young age (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) through the design, build and programming of a Lego EV3 robot to perform a series of tasks set by Siemens. Pupils work closely with Siemens mentors using parts supplied by the industrial firm.
This year around 50 Year 8 pupils from Eaton Bank Academy, Congleton High, Fallibroome Academy and Birches Head Academy took part over a 10 week period. To kick start the challenge students were invited to an introductory programing session at Siemens Congleton factory and also received a behind the scenes tour, where they were able to witness first hand modern manufacturing techniques including virtual reality design and robotics used in the manufacturing processes.
The result was a grand final event held at Eaton Bank Academy on 9th July, where teams from each school showcased their robots performing tasks to a team of judges.
Michaela Lawton-Wallace, Business Excellence at Siemens said “We are passionate about engaging students through fun and creative initiatives such as the robotics challenge and enlightening them about the varied and many career opportunities available. The UK is great at engineering but there is a problem; there aren't enough young people studying and becoming engineers and there is still an outdated perception that engineering is only suitable for boys.”
Horst Mayer, System Test & Type Test Team Leader at Siemens said “Siemens are delighted that following their engagement in the challenge 100% of the student participants rated the challenge positively and an impressive 56% are now considering careers in engineering”.
Pupils from Fallibroome Academy in Macclesfield, Birches Head Academy in Stoke on Trent, Congleton High School and Eaton Bank Academy in Congleton were recognised prize winners, with Congleton High School awarded first prize.
