Trust Robotics Competition inspires tech equality
Teamwork, problem-solving and perseverance were on display in abundance as teams of Year 8 girls from across Redhill Academy Trust battled it out at this year’s Trust Robotics Competition.
Cheered on by staff and fellow students, teams worked to specific briefs during multiple challenges, using skills in microchip programming developed during lessons to manoeuvre robots around obstacles and specially designed courses.
Hosted by The Bolsover School, the event began with an enlightening and inspiring talk by Tech She Can, a UK charity committed to making technology careers more inclusive and accessible. Students were captivated by the diversity of opportunities and professions showcased, adding to the excitement and anticipation in the room.
Research has shown that women are significantly under-represented in the world of technology. The Redhill Trust competition, now in its second year, aims to challenge the gender imbalance across technology-based jobs by helping students to develop skills and experience in the field, and aspire to 
tech-based careers.
Competition organiser and Trust Director of Computing, Chris Dixon said: “Robotics isn’t just about machines. It’s about imagination, creativity and working well in a team. Every one of the girls had the opportunity to experience that on the day, and they truly did!”.
Within their school teams, students meticulously programmed their robots to put on quite the show in the concluding ‘Impress the Judges’ round. From flashing light displays to routines choreographed to music, the effort and commitment students had invested in developing an array of impressive robotics skills was clear to see.
Tupton Hall School and Brookfield Community School were ultimately crowned joint champions, having accumulated the most points across the challenges. Both schools will take turns displaying the coveted robot trophy, expertly crafted by Design & Technology Technicians at Tupton Hall School.
Students from the Tupton Hall School team said: “We don’t usually get an opportunity like this, so it was really nice to try a different type of competition and to learn if it doesn’t go right the first time we can simply work together and have another go!”.