Select a region
Creating a computer programme to help a Lego robot navigate a maze will be one of the new techy tests added to the biggest quiz in the Channel Islands to test young minds, which is back this autumn.
After being introduced in Guernsey last year, the De Putron Challenge is bringing its new technology-themed round to Jersey, as well as being introduced in the year 8 age group across both islands.
The team-based round will challenge teams to write a computer coding programme to safely navigate a Lego EV3 robot through a maze using Lego’s own programming tools and an inbuilt Gyro sensor. The fastest and most accurate robot to complete the course will win valuable points for the team. The De Putron Challenge organisers will have the technical support and equipment from Digital Jersey and Guernsey's Digital Greenhouse on the day.
Launched in 2007 with just five Guernsey schools, the challenge saw as many as 50 Channel Island schools take part last year. Organisers anticipate a lot of entries this year again. There will be three separate contests for each school year group (Year 6, Year 8 and Post-16). Each school will go through several heats before reaching the final. The three winning schools will then go on to compete in the inter-island final which will be held in Guernsey at the Old Government House hotel on Tuesday 27 November.
Pictured: Broadcast news reporter John Fernandez will be the quizmaster once again.
Broadcast journalist John Fernandez will once again take on the role of De Putron Challenge’s quizmaster. The questions in the discovery round will be based on history, science and geography; other rounds include general knowledge, arts and literature as well as team rounds on sport, current affairs and words and maths.
Hayley de Putron, a trustee of the Ana Leaf Foundation and founder of the De Putron Challenge, said: “The popularity of the De Putron Challenge has been phenomenal. Having outgrown our Jersey venue we have moved this year to the Jersey Royal Showground giving schools the option to bring along as many supporters as they would like. The thrill of watching all the cheering supporting faces is delightful - they create a tremendous atmosphere.
“The whole aim of the event is to help develop young minds. That is why after each challenge we ask schools for their feedback which we try to accommodate and build upon each time to make the event more enjoyable and rewarding for everyone. Schools were keen for us to introduce a few more problem-solving team rounds which we hope we’ve achieved this year,” said Mrs de Putron.
Video: De Putron Challenge packs were sent out this week.
The Jersey De Putron Challenge will be held on 13 November at The Royal Jersey Showground with the Year 6 event at 09:30, followed by the Year 8 eventuate 14:30 and the Post-16 event from 19:00.
The inter-island final will be live-streamed for those unable to attend on the day.
Comments
Comments on this story express the views of the commentator only, not Bailiwick Publishing. We are unable to guarantee the accuracy of any of those comments.