We began the day by getting on a train at Campbelltown Station. We caught three trains and eventually ended up at Walker Street, where we walked to the Connections Centre in Rhodes. Upon our arrival, we were greeted by a very pleasing view of the water. We headed to the meeting hall where we were given an introduction of how to refine the Nao robot's dance moves. We then had 40 minutes to refine our dance before submitting our final routines for the competition.

During our very long lunch break, Mrs Matti gave us the opportunity to visit Ikea to explore the innovative furniture designs for our Interior Design Task next year. When we reached Ikea, a few of us were amazed at how big it was. We walked through each area and inspected a range of amazing furniture, shelving units and other utilities that were useful and aesthetically pleasing.

After visiting IKEA, we made our way back to The Connection Rhodes to prepare for the competition to start. A handful of primary and secondary schools arrived, and the competition was soon underway. The competition was split into primary schools and high schools. All the primary school dances were very impressive, with one group composing their own music to accompany their dance. It was then time for the secondary school competition. Every group’s dances were outstanding, and the robot executed all our dance moves perfectly.

The judges conferred with each other and Karly Berghold and Bianca Parker took out 1st place. It was a great way to finish off the day before jumping back on the train to Campbelltown.

This was a very worthwhile and enjoyable experience to be a part of and we recommend it to everyone who gets the chance to participate in future. We would like to give Mrs Matti a massive shout out for this amazing experience and hope the next year to do this has as much fun as we did! 

Imogen M & Erin M – Year 9 Design & Technology Students