Robotics in School: Building Skills for the Future 

By introducing robotics at school level, children learn not only how machines work, but also how to think critically, solve problems, and work together. So, how can robotics be introduced at different phases of schooling in South Africa, what activities can support learning, and how does it fit into the curriculum? Let’s explore.

Robotics in the Foundation Phase (Grades R–3)

At this early stage, learning should be playful and hands-on. Robotics helps children develop sequencing, logical thinking, and creativity.

• Activities: Simple coding games where children “become the robot”, programming a robot to move forward, backward, or turn. Kits like VEX GO allow learners to build a basic robot and experiment with movement.
  
• Curriculum link: Early exposure builds curiosity and problem-solving skills, but the Department of Basic Education (DBE) emphasises that literacy and numeracy remain the top priorities.

Robotics in the Intermediate Phase (Grades 4–6)

Learners at this stage are ready for more structured robotics work that integrates Maths and Natural Sciences.

• Activities: Building a simple drivetrain robot with wheels and motors, then programming it to move in shapes (square, triangle, octagon), reinforcing geometry.
  Adding sensors like an Eye Sensor or electromagnet so the robot can detect colours, pick up objects, or complete delivery challenges.
  
• Curriculum link: Robotics links with Technology and Natural Sciences, supporting experimentation and logical reasoning. Schools that have the resources often include robotics as an extension activity.

Robotics in High School (Grades 7–12)

In high school, robotics becomes more advanced and closely tied to Technology, IT, CAT, and EGD subjects.

• Activities: Designing robots to complete real-world tasks such as sorting recycling, using feedback loops, or competing in robotics competitions. Virtual robotics activities like VEXcode VR, where learners clean up a digital coral reef, combining coding with environmental awareness.
  
• Curriculum link: Schools with resources are implementing robotics to give learners exposure to STEM pathways.

The 3 Core Areas of Robotics Learning

Building and Mechanics (Robot Construction)

Learners explore how gears, wheels, motors, and structures affect movement and stability.

Try this: Build a simple Code Base drivetrain (motors + wheels), then add components like an electromagnet to pick up objects.

Electronics and Sensors (Robot Components and Responses)

Robots become more intelligent when they can sense and respond to their environment.

Try this: Program a robot with an electromagnet to pick up coloured disks and deliver them to different locations. Add an Eye Sensor to detect colour and respond automatically.

Programming and Control (Robot Coding)

Using block-based programming (like VEXcode GO or Scratch), learners bring their robots to life.

Try this: Start with a simple movement challenge (robot moves in a square), then progress to coding more complex shapes like an octagon, reinforcing geometry and sequencing.

Benefits of Robotics for Learners

• Robotics isn’t only about machines – it develops skills for life:
• Critical thinking and creativity – solving real-world problems.
  
• Teamwork and collaboration – sharing ideas and working in groups.
  
• Confidence and resilience – learning through trial and error.
  
• Future readiness – gaining STEM skills that link directly to 21st-century careers.
  It also builds emotional and social intelligence: patience, communication, and adaptability.

Practical Ways Robotics is Used in Schools

• Maths: Robots draw shapes to explore angles and geometry.
• Natural Sciences: Robots with sensors collect data (e.g., temperature, light).
• Social Sciences: Robots model systems like farming or transport.
• Extracurricular: Robotics clubs enter competitions like the World Robot Olympiad.

The South African Context

Despite growing global emphasis on digital skills, the DBE has confirmed that Coding and Robotics will not become compulsory subjects in the near future. According to its updated Annual Performance Plan for 2025/26, implementation will depend on available resources and the readiness of schools.
The DBE highlights that learners must first master literacy and numeracy by Grade 4 before STEM-related subjects like robotics can be fully effective. Without these foundational skills, learners are at a disadvantage when engaging with more advanced concepts (DBE, 2025).
This doesn’t mean robotics isn’t valuable – rather, schools and communities with the capacity are encouraged to integrate it in a way that complements foundational learning, preparing children for future opportunities.

Final thoughts

Robotics may sound technical, but in reality, it’s playful, creative, and inspiring. Whether learners are in the foundation phase or preparing for university, robotics offers them a chance to build, test, code, and imagine. Most importantly, it equips them with the skills to thrive in a future where technology and innovation go hand in hand.

At StudyChamp, we believe robotics education empowers learners to be problem-solvers, innovators, and collaborators – skills that matter just as much as academic marks.

For a first taste of Robotics, give VEXcode VR a try. It’s simple to use, easy to navigate, and surprisingly fun to see that your commands are driving a little robot car!

You can also try RoboBlocky, Hour of Code, RoboThink (a South African website).

References:

Edutopia. (2025). Hands-on robotics activities for elementary students. Retrieved from https://www.edutopia.org/article/hands-on-robotics-activities-elementary-students
South Africa Department of Basic Education (DBE). (2025). Annual Performance Plan 2025/26 – Coding and Robotics implementation update.