Our EPro8 programme is off to a great start this year! There has been a huge increase in interest from students and we’ve entered a total of 8 teams into the regional heats, up from 3 teams last year.

The 2021 reigning Bay of Plenty/Waikato champions “Weapons of Math Destruction” are back and determined to take out the Year 11-13 competition this year.

To provide a context, the EPro8 Challenge is an inter-school science and engineering competition. Every year over 22,000 students from throughout New Zealand take part. Students participate in a series of events designed to promote science and engineering. Through the EPro8 Competition students can develop their mathematical knowledge and use logic and experimentation to solve problems. They are challenged to construct a range of different structures like bridges, cranes and machinery, using electronic circuits, pulleys, motors, gears and axles. Some of the past challenges include a pinball machine, conveyor belt, bungy jump, bridge complete with traffic lights and storm proof dog kennel.

Our teams have been practicing in J Block with the new construction and electronics kits, purchased by the BOT to support students’ in this practical, cross-curricular learning opportunity. The Bay of Plenty regional heats are on 02 June, held at Bethlehem College and we are looking forward to providing the other schools with some stiff competition.

Mrs Jensen