Ten pupils from Miss McKinley’s Year 6 class took part in their first ever ‘Lego League’ 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 idea—a 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 Giant’s 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, 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐦𝐜𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐞'𝐬 𝐂𝐫𝐚𝐟𝐭𝐲 𝐂𝐨𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬 and their teacher 𝐌𝐢𝐬𝐬 𝐌𝐜𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐥𝐞𝐲 competed against primary and secondary schools across Northern Ireland and successfully cleared the board!
They were awarded:
★ Highest Scoring Robot Game ✔︎
★ Best Innovation Presentation ✔︎
★ Best Teacher Award ✔︎
★ The Overall Champions ✔︎
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 pupil’s achievement wouldn't have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors: Northern Regional College, Milanos, McAtamney’s Butchers, NIE, Michelin, MFP, Atlas Technologies, The Hair and Beauty Spot, Orthoplus, BMW Garage, Harryville’s 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!
