Getting Started with RoboCup – For Absolute Beginners
Being part of a robotics program or club provides an invaluable opportunity for students to build critical and creative thinking skills in design thinking, programming, engineering, project management, problem solving and collaboration.
RoboCup Junior is open to all school age students with competitions ranging from novice to experienced divisions. Students have the opportunity to be immersed in applying a range of skills and choice of digital technologies and platforms. Schools can build their resources and confidence with the support of RoboCup Junior Mentors.
RoboCup is split into three challenge areas – OnStage, Rescue (Line and Maze), and Soccer. Each team needs to choose which challenge they wish to enter. Each of these challenges has an entry-level division which is most suitable for beginners.
This is a summary of the typical competitions offered by RoboCup. Please visit the challenge pages for OnStage, Rescue Line, Rescue Maze, and Soccer to find out more information and read the rules.
Teams are generally between 2 to 4 students. Schools can enter multiple teams in any challenge.
The RoboCup challenges do not change significantly from year-to-year. This reduces the annual cost for schools and parents. All of the following items are one-off purchases (except for art and craft materials). Most of the cost goes towards purchasing the LEGO Spike Prime kit/other reusable Robot Kits. This kit can be shared between students and used for multiple years (some schools have had them for more than 6 years).
OnStage | Rescue Line | Rescue Maze | Soccer |
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Although the cost of the kits may initially be quite expensive, they can be used year after year! There is no need to purchase a new pack each year. This is one of the key benefits of doing RoboCup.
Software: Free!
Typical entry fees:
RoboCup Junior Australia runs regional, state, and national competitions, as well as workshops. Please check your state or territory’s page for an event calendar. Please note that state and national competitions are open to everyone – you don’t need to ‘qualify’ at a previous event to participate.
RoboCup Junior is run predominantly by teachers. We know how busy teachers can get during the school term. The RoboCup challenges do not change significantly from year-to-year, which means you can spend as much or as little time as you need preparing for competition.
Go to your State/Territory page to find local events near you.
Check out the Getting Started section for more detailed resources that you might find helpful.
