End-Tech, the robotics squad from Endon High School in Staffordshire, triumphed in their regional Lego-based competition. Read on to explore how they captured the imagination of Newcastle-under-Lyme. Owen, James, Ethan Saunders—as well as lively Malachi—make up this extremely gifted five-member team. Through their teamwork, ability and innovation, they won the right to represent Staffordshire at the first ever Lego League UK National Final.
This victory represents End-Tech’s second back-to-back success at this stage of the contest. The winning team went up against lots of strong competition, including a talented group from Bradford. Especially this year, the competition was fierce. Malachi noted that teams have gotten a lot better this year, putting the race closer than ever before.
Their team spent thousands of hours programming and constructing their robot. Imagine the possibilities Their creation recently docked with advanced color sensors that largely improve its capabilities. These sensors allowed the robot to navigate mazes and other obstacles laid out by the judges, and so much more. Points were awarded based on the team’s performance in these challenges, including a presentation about their robot’s capabilities.
Owen emphasized the improvements made this year, stating, “We’ve got a whole different robot with colour sensors this time, that makes it a bit easier to use.” The new innovation must have been the key to this success and especially their success at this regional level.
James called contest day “nail biting,” which is fitting given the pressure and anticipation that surrounds the big event. It was the team’s careful planning and dedication that made this momentous achievement possible. Now, they’re set to do battle against the best in the country at the national tournament in Harrogate.