Pupils from Mile End Primary School are battling it out this weekend to be crowned champions of the Institution of Engineering and Technology’s (IET) FIRST® LEGO® League Scotland Final.
The event which takes place on Saturday (February 29) at Perth College is a science and technology challenge, aimed at 9-16 year olds, who are challenged to build a robot to tackle a series of missions and create an innovative solution to a real world problem.
The challenge on this occasion, will see 24 teams learn all about architecture and the spaces we live in while demonstrating their skills in robotics, computer programming, teamwork, research, problem solving and communication.
The IET’s is supporting the competition to help show young people the benefits of careers within science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
Councillor John Wheeler, Aberdeen City Council’s education operational delivery convener, said: “I’d like to wish the Mile End team the best of luck for Saturday’s competition. We are always keen to promote the teaching and learning of STEM subjects and this is an imaginative and engaging approach that has really struck a chord with the pupils”.
Mile End team member, Hannah (P6) said: “We are really excited for the Nationals on Saturday, all we want is the chance to win a few points and see how we get on against much older children!”
The team coaches, teachers Ailsa Barker and Melissa Robbie said they were proud of how much commitment and self-direction the team has shown since August, giving up at least three lunchtimes a week in preparation.
Lowri Walton, FIRST® LEGO® League IET education manager, said: “There is a great need for young people with STEM skills to fill the next generation of engineering roles and we are excited to see such bright young engineering minds in FIRST® LEGO® League. I’d like to wish all teams the best of luck in the Final!”
The Mile End team with coaches Ailsa Barker and Mel Robbie are set for Saturday’s showdown