12 squadrons from across North Region took part in the first ever VEX League, supported by VEX Robotics, The REC Foundation, Go North East and the Air Cadet Charity. This exciting STEM initiative gave young people the opportunity to design, build and compete with their own robots in a friendly but challenging engineering environment.

Competitions were held at a number of locations across the region, including Inskip Cadet Centre, Warcop Training Camp and 1313 (Whickham) Sqn. The season culminated in a spectacular regional final at the National Air & Space Camp (NASC), where more than 2,000 cadets had the chance to watch the finals and take part in hands-on robotics activities using the VEX IQ kits.

The reaction from cadets and staff was overwhelmingly positive. Air Commodore Lewis attended the finale and was hugely impressed, expressing his support for expanding the league so even more cadets can get involved nationwide.

“A really exciting initiative - we are exploring widening the access to this fab equipment with teamwork, leadership, problem solving and STEM skills all in harness.”
Air Commodore Lewis, Commandant RAF Air Cadets

This project has proven to be far more than a STEM competition. It has sparked ambition, built confidence and opened cadets’ eyes to engineering and technology pathways they may not otherwise have explored. With Season 2 already in development, interest has doubled - so far, 24 squadrons have registered to take part. Furthermore, organisers have reached out to Sea Cadets and Army Cadets to explore the possibility of making the league tri-Service.

“Your grant enabled us to build the league and take it all the way to NASC. The next grant we have applied for will allow over 9,000 cadets to have hands on experience with VEX IQ and will build the league further over the next season and across other regions for season 3.”
Flight Lieutenant Theresa Russell, North Region STEM Lead

Season 1 showed just how powerful practical STEM can be when placed directly into the hands of young people. Well done to North Region who, with continued support, hopes to inspire thousands more cadets across the UK to discover engineering, creativity and teamwork through robotics.

‍