Two UHC Year 10 teams took on the challenge of the EPRo8 in Porirua. Student Sofia Johnson tells us what happened.

The engineering and problem-solving competition was held in Porirua and two UHC teams were entered: The Spicy Yogurt Pottles (made up of Sofia Johnson, Garrett Amyes, Matthew Jones, and McKenzie Glynn) and The Worm In The Apple (made up of Edison Yang, Robin Meijer, Ellie Cowley, Jayden Zhu).

Under the two hour time limit, the teams from different schools had to face multiple scenarios by constructing various systems like a burglar-proof safe or a fan to blow a balloon precisely into a hand-made netball hoop. 

Each team was provided with an array of DIY materials that included electronic wiring, metal rods, lasers and our life-saving nuts and bolts. 

As the clock began its countdown, Team Spicy Yogurt Pottles smashed out the first few scenarios, landing in 1st place. Unfortunately as the competition went on, The Spicy Yogurt Pottles slowly dropped to 2nd, then 3rd. 

They held the respectable position up until the last minute when another school’s team miraculously overtook them. The Worm In The Apple glided between 5th and 4th, a great team effort for both. 

The whole experience was incredible and everyone who attended is so grateful for the challenging but extremely enjoyable opportunity that is Epro8.

Thank you to Ms Eichler for organsing for us to go and experience this.