STUDENTS will build underwater robots as part of a Ports of Jersey competition to encourage ‘engineering, design, presentation, and science skills’.
The challenge is aimed at Year 9 pupils, with six teams – from four schools, and the Air and Sea Cadets – signed up to the 12-week course.
Students will build a remotely operated vehicle (ROV), in association with international organisations SeaPerch and RoboNation.
The teams were to meet their fellow competitors at the Airport’s Cargo Centre today, when they will learn how ROVs are used as part of maritime operations at the Harbour and receive their kits from Ports of Jersey chief executive Matt Thomas.
At the end of the 12 weeks, the teams and their ROVs will face a range of challenges in a swimming pool, including an obstacle course, poster presentation and speed trial.
Head of group technical services Julie Acey said: ‘We’re delighted to offer this unusual and quirky competition to these schools again this year.
‘Building the ROVs encourages the teams to develop basic engineering, design, presentation, and science skills.
‘Ports of Jersey is committed to supporting our community. We hope this competition supports future talent by sparking an interest in STEM subjects among students, particularly as the students will be selecting their GCSE subjects this year.
‘During the competition, our mentors will showcase the variety of opportunities available, both within Ports of Jersey, but elsewhere on the Island too.’