Vex Robotics

A fundamental part of our Computer Science department is Vex Robotics; an international, educational robotics program designed specifically for secondary education school ages.

Figure 1. Vex IQ Competition Robot

Simon Langton’s VEX Robotics program is designed to inspire and challenge students to think critically, collaborate effectively, and problem-solve creatively through the exciting world of robotics.

Vex involvement brings a multitude of educational benefits:

1. Hands-On Learning: Students don’t just learn about robotics; they build, program, and compete with their own robots, gaining practical skills that prepare them for future STEM careers.
2. Teamwork: Robotics competitions require collaboration and teamwork. Our program encourages students to work together, share ideas, and learn from each other’s strengths.
3. STEM Education: VEX Robotics integrates science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) concepts in a fun and engaging way, helping students develop a deeper understanding of these subjects.
4. Problem-Solving: From designing and building robots to troubleshooting technical issues, students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential for success in any field.
5. Competitive Opportunities: Our students have the chance to participate in local, regional, and even international robotics competitions, where they can showcase their skills, creativity, and teamwork.
6. Dedicated Mentors: Our experienced mentors provide guidance, support, and expertise to help students succeed in the world of robotics.

Vex Robotics at Simon Langton Boys’ School involves creative conceptual development, physical assembly and embedded-computer styled programming to develop fully-functional robots which feature a broad variety of sensor inputs, inter-communication and user-control aspects.

Figure 2. VexIQ Classroom

The fundamentals of our Vex Robotics activities are STEM oriented (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) and are intentionally directed to the present and future use of robotics in industry (e.g. industrial automation), domestic (e.g. home automation) and healthcare (e.g. remote telecare) applications.

Vex robotics also involves student participation in regional, national and international competitive events.

Figure 3. Regional Vex Event hosted in our School Hall

Figure 4. Simon Langton Head of Computer Science with international visitors.

Simon Langton Boys’ School has competed and won events at both national and international level. Watch this 3 minute video from VEX Robotics Competition – UK National Championship 2024 featuring Simon Langton students.

Figure 5. Vex V5 Trophies and Robot awarded to Simon Langton

Over the many years of involvement, we have invested heavily in both VexIQ and VexV5. VexIQ is a mostly used by KS3, with students progressing their study each year eventually using Vex V5 in Years 10 to 13.