The School of Science and Technology at the University of Northampton has been working with local schools to create robots made from junk. This is an initiative by the University to introduce environmental sustainability, engineering and computing to students in a fun and educational project that uses STEM subjects.

Junkbots is being delivered by university staff and students, working as STEM Ambassadors, going into schools to provide guidance and support in the production of the robots.  The workshops will introduce students to the idea of waste management and allow them to design and build their own robots, using junk material, to being with and later creating a robot that will clear rubbish.  Students will then present their work to the wider group.

Here are some comments from Thomas Becket Catholic School who have been working with the University of Northampton’s School of Science and Technology on the Junkbots project; Kerrie Henton, Vice Principal at Thomas Becket School said “We are committed to environmental sustainability at Thomas Becket and any opportunity we can give our students to engage in an exiting learning opportunity that is good for the community is something we couldn’t turn down. The students and staff supporting the project have had an excellent time and the robots they produced are just superb.” 

David Barclay (14) said 'It's been very good and great fun and it has made me realise aspects about the environment that I never realised before. We have even found ways to save the school money which I am sure the Head will be pleased about'. 

The Junkbots project is funded by Northamptonshire Enterprise Ltd through the Single Programme and managed by the University of Northampton.   

Guest Blogger: Heathery Payne, Northamptonshire Enterprise