A group of teachers and students from a national school of excellence for the arts in south London has won the chance of a lifetime. They’ll be competing for Great Britain at the First Global Challenge, the international robotics competition dubbed the “robotics Olympics.” This year’s event will have our team competing with participants from 190 other countries. This is an incredible accomplishment, not only for the hardworking students but their school as well.
The team, formed just two years ago by students Adrian, Kieran, and Teddy, began their journey under the guidance of Mr. Matt Fry, who introduced robotics to the school. At first they found it very difficult, taking a bust in their first competition. It was their determination and commitment that brought them through to be crowned as the UK champions. With this remarkable accomplishment, they won their spot on the global stage.
“The robot is almost the smallest part of this,” said Mr. Fry. “It’s the leadership, it’s the project-managing, it’s all manner of different things.”
Development of sustainable food networks is the theme of this year’s First Global Challenge. This theme could not be more timely, with a top-down call for a sustainable global future. The six students selected will work on assignments that mimic real-world challenges under this theme, exhibiting their ingenuity and artistic vision.
Kieran, still incredulous about how far they’ve gotten from that first day in Mr. Fry’s robotics club. “None of us knew much about the competition,” he admitted. “After that we bounced back and just put everything into it – and then we did really well.”
Reflecting on their journey, Adrian stated, “In two years, we’ve come so far. None of us thought when we started that we would become the UK champions and represent our country in a global competition.” He communicated a great deal of pride in his team’s achievements and development.
The team members wish to encourage their peers at their school with what they’ve accomplished. “The fact that we’re the first comprehensive school to go, it just feels like we can open doors,” said one member of the team. They’re not stopping there—they’re taking the initiative to reach out to neighboring schools to help increase participation in robotics. They point out that if they can be successful, so can you.
Kieran listed the chance to connect with other young leaders from all corners of the world as one of the most exciting parts of the competition. “Meeting new people from all around the world is something I would never have dreamed of when starting robotics at school,” he remarked.
Through all of the team’s success Mr. Fry has been as important – if not more so. As Kieran even referred to him “like a god in our eyes”. The students are grateful for his support, stating, “Without him, none of this would have ever happened. We can only say ‘thank you.’”
The team will soon be heading to Panama for the First Global Challenge. Like their predecessors of 40 years ago, they’re fired up to take on new challenges and represent their country with pride on the world stage.