Ten pupils from Miss McKinleyβs Year 6 class took part in their first ever βLego Leagueβ Competition.
The competition involved two key areas: An Innovation Project and Robot Game. The Robot Game required the pupils to construct and programme a robot using Lego and motors to complete various missions. Whereas, the Innovation Project challenged the pupils to explore a way technology could be used to share a hobby. The pupils thought of a groundbreaking ideaβa VR headset paired with sensor-equipped skates to simulate ice skating experiences at home.
Their concept showcased the artistic aspects of ice skating, transitioning between figure skating, Disney on Ice performances, Belfast Giantβs ice hockey games, and leisurely skating in New York with friends.
To refine their idea, they interviewed several experts, including Simon Boyd, an Innovation Manager at PWC, who provided access to an Oculus Go VR headset. They also received valuable feedback from Mark Garside, a player for the Belfast Giants, Anastasia, a Disney on Ice skater, and Eddie Alton, an ice skating coach at Dundonald Ice Bowl. All experts praised their concept, recognising its potential to inspire others to pursue ice skating.
An important aspect of their product was its accessibility, particularly for those with mobility challenges. To address this, they collaborated with Castle Tower Special Needs School, where they organised a sensory play session covering various aspects of ice skating. Activities included trying out the VR headset, painting with ice cubes to mimic skater lines, and using flour to simulate the sensation of snow.
On the 7th March, ππ¨π₯π¦ππ’π₯π₯π'π¬ ππ«ππππ² ππ¨πππ«π¬ and their teacher ππ’π¬π¬ ππππ’π§π₯ππ² competed against primary and secondary schools across Northern Ireland and successfully cleared the board!
They were awarded:
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Highest Scoring Robot Game βοΈ
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Best Innovation Presentation βοΈ
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Best Teacher Award βοΈ
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The Overall Champions βοΈ
The pupils then qualified to the All Ireland Finals on Saturday the 23rd March in Dublin. Despite facing tough competition from 23 other schools, predominately secondary schools they were awarded All-Ireland winners for their outstanding Innovation Project!
Well done to the following pupils: Maximilian, Annie, Ella L, Ella F, Delia, Gabrielle, Caleb, Connor, Alex, and Olivia!
The pupilβs achievement wouldn't have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors: Northern Regional College, Milanos, McAtamneyβs Butchers, NIE, Michelin, MFP, Atlas Technologies, The Hair and Beauty Spot, Orthoplus, BMW Garage, Harryvilleβs Mens Shed, Ballymena Rotary Club, ZALA Sports, Wrights, Pizza Parlour, Edmondson Estates, The Mayor, ACE Fixings, and The Credit Union.
A lifetime experience where dreams came true!
