Rotary Technology Tournaments 2008
It was team work in action when SETPOINT Herts, Engineering Ambassadors from local industries, Rotarians as well as teachers and pupils from Heathcote School enjoyed a Bridge Building Technology Challenge in late June. It’s an excellent example of how partnering works by enhancing the curriculum, expanding the work-related element and giving pupils a different experience to their established timetable.
The event ran as an inter-house competition with around 50 pupils competing for those all-important house points, a glass plaque and a book about design for each of the winning students. The challenge was well received, running smoothly and actively engaging all pupils. THANKS to Engineering Ambassadors from the Rotary Clubs, Eddie Veale, Chris Tye, Cyril Lessing as well as Lee Worbey from MBDA, Peter Damer from GE and Brian Doherty from Price Arthur Consultancy for their support, expertise and encouragement.
Winning Icknield House team proudly receive their prize,
presented by Mayor Graham Clarke
What is a Rotary Technology Tournament?
Rotary Technology Tournaments are one-day events organised by groups of Rotary Clubs for teams from local secondary schools and colleges.
A Tournament consists of teams of four students undertaking an unseen challenge against the clock of a design, build and test nature.
The task is consistent with the requirements of the national curriculum; its execution develops team building, communication skills, planning and time management, as well as solving a design and technology problem.
The highlight of the day is the testing session when the team can see the performance of competing designs and solutions.
Tournaments provide an opportunity for using team-building skills in solving a design and technology problem, as well as practising oral, written and graphical communications skills.
Rotary Technology Tournaments take place in various venues, usually during March, but please note that a Broxbourne event will be held in June.
In 2008, events were held at Royston, Bushey Hall School in Bushey, Marlborough School in St Albans, Oaklands College in Welwyn Garden City, Ashlyns School in Berkhamsted, Priory School in Hitchin and Heathcote School in Stevenage.
If your school would like to get involved during 2008/09, please contact SETPOINT Herts for more details.
