25/03/2026
Local schools put to the test by BAE Systems
The annual Rotary International/ BAE Systems Technology Tournament took place on Friday March 20th 2026 at Accrington and Rossendale College, Accrington.
Our regional competitions take place, on the same day across Lancashire and Cumbria.
The local Blackburn with Darwen, Hyndburn and Ribble Valley event took place at Accrington and Rossendale College, with 7 schools participating.
58 students made up 16 teams plus a team of Teachers.
This yearâs challenge:
The three sections, Foundation, Intermediate and Advanced, had different parameters to work with around the same basic problem:
Build and demonstrate a 4 wheeled vehicle, powered by an electric motor, to travel down a 100mm diameter pipeline to clear debris.
Vehicles could be decorated with artwork highlighting âEnergy Conservationâ.
Teams had to work on a design for their vehicle, followed by construction and a demonstration of how well it worked.
The students enjoyed a great day, not to mention the teachers, putting different ideas forward, using wood, glue, elastic bands, an electric motor and cables.
All while developing teamwork skills, meeting deadlines, planning, design, build and performance skills, as well as getting to know students from other schools.
BAE Systems sponsored the event, with students receiving a certificate of participation and details of how to access the BAE Apprenticeship Scheme when considering their careers.
Rotary in East Lancashire organised the event, with Rotarians from Clubs across East Lancashire helping on the day. Rotary would like to thank BAE Systems and Accrington and Rossendale College for their continued support and the use of their premises.
A great day was enjoyed by all who took part!
The results were:
Foundation section:
Winners: Woodhey High School Woodhey High School, Ramsbottom.
Runners up: Bowland High Bowland High School, Grindleton, Nr Clitheroe.
Intermediate section:
Winners: Our Lady and St. John RC High School, Blackburn.
Runners up: The Hollins High School, Accrington.
Advanced section:
Winners: The Senator Group Senator Group, Altham.
Runners up: Nelson and Colne College Sixth Form Nelson and Colne College.