Robotics curriculum launched for GCSE students

In a bit to stem the STEM shortage, the very first robotics curriculum aimed squarely at GCSE students was unveiled recently, as PIF reports.

Created by VEX Robotics in partnership with FANUC, the new syllabus will inspire and prepare Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 students for a career in engineering.

How will the robotics curriculum work?

Students will learn theoretical and practical skills behind how FANUC robots are installed, programmed, and maintained within a manufacturing environment, working both individually and as part of a team. The step-by-step, 12-part lesson plan will challenge pupils with new ways of thinking and problem solving, to equip them with the right skills to become the future engineers of tomorrow.

STEM skills from an early age

Tom Bouchier, managing director of FANUC UK said: “The STEM shortage facing the UK engineering sector is a growing issue that needs to be addressed. Our partnership with VEX robotics will help towards resolving this issue, providing STEM skills from an early age and supporting career development.

It is also important that an increasing number of girls are encouraged to pursue a future in engineering, as a way of solving the gender imbalance that currently persists within the industry

Hands-on experience of robotic engineering

Phil Holton, head of design and technology at Bromley High School added: “The autonomous robotics project has been carefully planned to bring the industrial experience of robotic design and operation into the classroom with engaging and challenging stages of both physical building and programming”

Paul McKnight, head of operations at VEX Robotics Europe said: “The curriculum is an exciting opportunity to give students a hands-on experience of robotic engineering. We chose to partner with FANUC due to its reputation as a leader within the market, and its ethos of encouraging young people into robotics and automation through their apprenticeship scheme.”

Who are VEX Robotics and FANUC?

VEX Robotics inspires students to become the problem solving heroes of tomorrow. VEX EDR offers students a rich and exciting platform to immerse themselves in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) through the fun of building robots. Educators can bring VEX EDR into the classroom with our custom curriculum or use it as a teaching tool through after-school robotics clubs.

With almost 60 years of experience in the development of computer numerical control equipment, more than 18.5 million products installed worldwide and more than 5200 employees, FANUC is the leading global manufacturer of factory automation. Whether it’s industrial robots, CNC systems, wire cut EDM, injection moulding machines or vertical machining centres, there is nothing we love more than automation.

Based in the purpose-built FANUC City, at the foot of Mount Fuji, FANUC produces up to 25,000 CNC controls, 125,000 servo motors, 84,000 servo amplifiers, 5000 robots and 5600 machines…every month!