Over the weekend of 25–26 April, cadets from Calday’s RAF Section travelled to Inskip Cadet Centre to take part in VEX Robotics Development Weekend 2.
VEX Robotics is an international STEM programme that challenges teams to design, build, programme and operate robots to complete a series of tasks within competitive matches. Cadets must combine engineering, coding and problem-solving skills with teamwork, communication and strategic thinking. The programme provides an exciting and practical introduction to robotics while encouraging young people to develop skills that can be applied to future education and careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
The weekend provided the team with an excellent opportunity to develop their knowledge of the VEX V5 Robotics system and prepare for future competitions. Their goal was to improve both their technical ability and match strategy while earning valuable points towards the National Air and Space Camp (NASC) Final in August.
Throughout the weekend, the cadets participated in practical challenges, skirmishes and competitive matches against teams from other RAF Sections. They tested and adapted their robot designs, refined their driving techniques and explored new strategies designed to improve reliability, consistency and scoring potential.
As in any engineering project, not every idea worked perfectly on the first attempt. Cadets were required to identify problems, make adjustments and test their solutions under pressure. This process helped them develop resilience, creativity and the ability to learn from setbacks, alongside the technical skills required to construct and operate a competitive robot.
The experience also allowed cadets to take on different responsibilities within the team, including designing, building, programming, driving and planning match tactics. Success depended on everyone communicating effectively and using their individual strengths to support the wider team.
The development weekend was not solely focused on competition. During their downtime, the cadets had the opportunity to build friendships with members of other RAF Sections from across the region. A karaoke session and a film night featuring Casino Royale provided an enjoyable and relaxed conclusion to a busy day of robotics activities.
The cadets represented Calday Grange Grammar School and the Combined Cadet Force with pride, demonstrating enthusiasm, teamwork and determination throughout the weekend. They returned with greater confidence, valuable competition experience and plenty of new ideas to incorporate into their robot as preparations continued for the NASC Final later in the year.
