Even during the summer holidays, our cadets have continued to remain active, committed and determined to make the most of every opportunity available to them. This summer, members of the Calday Grange Grammar School RAF Section Robotics Team represented the school at the RAF Air Cadets VEX Robotics 2025/26 National Finals—and returned as national champions.
The finals were held during the National Air and Space Camp at RAF Syerston. This major annual event brings together cadets from across the country to take part in a wide range of aviation, aerospace, engineering, cyber and STEM-related activities. Reaching the national finals was already a significant achievement, but the Calday team arrived determined to perform to the very best of their ability.
VEX Robotics is an international programme that challenges teams to design, build, programme and operate a robot capable of completing a series of demanding tasks. Teams must score points during fast-paced competitive matches while working alongside—and competing against—other robots.
The competition requires far more than simply building a working robot. Cadets must apply their knowledge of engineering, electronics, programming and design while also developing effective match strategies. They need to communicate clearly, make quick decisions and respond calmly when something does not go according to plan.
Throughout the 2025/26 season, the Calday team dedicated a considerable amount of time to preparing for the competition. They attended development weekends, took part in practice matches and continually tested, repaired and improved their robot. Each session gave the cadets an opportunity to identify weaknesses, experiment with new ideas and refine both their design and programming.
The road to the finals involved many hours of hard work. Building a successful competition robot is a continual process of trial and improvement, with even a small mechanical or programming change having the potential to affect performance. The cadets demonstrated impressive patience and resilience, learning from unsuccessful attempts and working together to find practical solutions.
At RAF Syerston, the team made an excellent start and performed strongly throughout the qualifying stages. Their preparation, technical knowledge and teamwork were evident as they adapted their strategy for each match and responded effectively to the challenges presented by their opponents.
Following an impressive qualifying campaign, the team completed their final qualifying match in second place and secured progression to the quarter-finals. From that point, the pressure increased as every decision, repair and match performance became crucial.
The cadets continued to work calmly and effectively throughout the knockout stages. Between matches, they carefully assessed the robot’s performance, completed essential checks and made adjustments where required. Their ability to communicate, solve problems under pressure and support one another proved vital as the competition progressed.
After months of preparation and an outstanding series of performances at the finals, the Calday team secured an incredible first place and were crowned the RAFAC VEX Robotics National Champions for the 2025/26 season.
This exceptional result reflects the cadets’ commitment throughout the entire season. It is also a powerful example of the valuable skills developed through the RAF Section and the wider cadet experience. Alongside their technical knowledge, the team strengthened their confidence, leadership, resilience, creativity and ability to work collaboratively towards a shared objective.
The achievement is particularly impressive because it took place during the school summer holidays. While many pupils were taking a well-earned break, these cadets continued to give their time to training, travelling and representing both the school and the RAF Section at a national event.
The Section Commander said:
“I am incredibly proud of everything the team has achieved this season. Their commitment, enthusiasm and determination have been exceptional. They have worked through technical challenges, learned from every competition and supported one another throughout the entire process.
“To be crowned national champions is a thoroughly deserved reward for the many hours of work they have invested. They represented Calday Grange Grammar School and the RAF Section superbly, and I cannot wait to see what they can achieve during the 2026/27 season.”
The team’s success would not have been possible without the encouragement and support of the adult volunteers, competition organisers and staff who provided the cadets with opportunities to develop their knowledge and prepare for the event. Their time, guidance and commitment have played an important part in helping the team reach this level.
Huge congratulations to every member of the Calday RAF Section Robotics Team. Becoming national champions is a remarkable achievement and one of which the cadets, their families, the RAF Section and the wider school community can be extremely proud.
The team now looks forward to building on this success, sharing its experience with other cadets and preparing for the challenges of the 2026/27 season. After such an outstanding result, the future of robotics within the Calday RAF Section looks extremely promising.
