Three Macleans College teams reach EPro8 semi-finals

Quick thinking, creative design and teamwork were put to the test as Macleans College students took on the Auckland EPro8 Challenge, with three teams progressing to the semi-finals of the highly competitive inter-school competition.

The EPro8 Challenge is an inter-school science and engineering competition involving more than 35,000 students from Years 5 to 13 across New Zealand each year. Students first compete within their schools before progressing to inter-school events.

Macleans College entered five teams in the event, including four junior teams and one senior team. The students demonstrated strong skills in science, engineering and problem-solving throughout the competition.

At each event, teams work from individual stations equipped with a wide range of materials, tools, motors and electronic components. They are presented with four challenges and must decide which ones to attempt.  Tasks can include projects such as constructing a crane capable of lifting a weight, building a motorised conveyor belt or generating electricity using a large wheel.

Following a highly competitive series of rounds, three Macleans College teams advanced to the semi-finals. Although they narrowly missed places in the grand final, reaching the semi-finals was a significant achievement in a fiercely contested tournament.

The competition provided valuable experience in structural design, electronics and collaborative problem-solving. These skills will provide a strong foundation for future challenges.