​St. Anthony’s School in Kincardine hosts second annual robotics challenge

The gymnasium at St. Anthony’s School in Kincardine was buzzing with energy and precision as elementary students from across the Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board gathered for the second annual robotics challenge.

The event brought together young programmers and engineers to design, build, and code robots using LEGO® elements and motorized parts. In a series of high-stakes, 2.5-minute rounds, teams were tasked with completing complex maneuvers and challenges, applying real-world math and science concepts in a fast-paced, competitive environment.

This year’s challenge featured a unique mentorship component, as elementary participants were paired with high school students in the robotics clubs at Sacred Heart High School in Walkerton and St. Mary’s High School in Owen Sound. This collaboration allowed younger students to benefit from the technical expertise of their older peers while building a sense of community and camaraderie across the school board.

"Watching our students bridge the gap between classroom theory and hands-on application is truly inspiring," said Nicole Batte, educational technology consultant for the Catholic school board. "This challenge is about more than just robots; it’s about fostering critical life skills, such as teamwork, creative problem-solving, and resilience. By working alongside high school mentors, our elementary students are seeing first-hand where their passion for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) can take them in the future."

Beyond the coding rounds, the event focused on holistic development. The competition emphasized the board’s commitment to developing self-confidence, knowledge, and collaborative skills in every student.

The robotics challenge continues to grow as a cornerstone event for the board, highlighting the importance of 21st-Century learning and the bright future of tech-based education in the region.