From a fledgling club to a nationally recognised programme, Robotics at Radley has grown rapidly over the past two years. Its success reflects the creativity, ingenuity and determination of the boys and dons involved. Supported by the generosity of donors to the Foundation, what began as an exciting co-curricular activity has become a hub of innovation and collaboration, extending its reach across year groups and beyond the College gates.
Led by the Head of Computer Science, Alastair Vaan, the programme has gone from strength to strength. In 2024–25, two Radley teams, Icarus and Ibex, qualified for the VEX Robotics World Championships in Dallas, Texas – the largest school robotics competition in the world. This remarkable achievement, built on months of hard work and collaboration, was supported by philanthropic funding, which enabled ten boys and two staff members to travel to the United States and compete at the highest level.
The competition drew 800 teams from more than 60 countries. For the boys, it was a rare and inspiring chance to meet and compete with some of the most talented young engineers from across the globe. Over three intense days, they tested their skills in engineering, strategy, and teamwork – and discovered the power of cross-cultural collaboration and shared passion.
Both teams performed superbly. Icarus, made up of 6.2 boys, won 7 of their 10 matches and reached the elimination rounds, forming a successful alliance with a team from Germany. Ibex, a 6.1 team, secured six wins, finishing 35th in their division. Icarus also returned home with the Energy Award, recognising their passion, resilience and outstanding engagement – a true mark of character on the global stage.
Beyond the competition itself, the trip enabled meaningful connection. The Radley team hosted a practice room in their hotel, which became a hub for UK teams and a meeting point with some of the best teams in the world. Through shared practice sessions and informal conversations, friendships and knowledge were exchanged – building a deeper sense of community within the world of school robotics.
Importantly, philanthropy ensured that every boy who qualified could take part, regardless of financial background. It also allowed Radley to support a first-year student engineer from the UK Robotics community to attend as a referee – helping to grow the quality and reach of robotics across the country.
Closer to home, the impact continues to ripple outward. Radley’s younger teams are now thriving, encouraged by the example of Icarus and Ibex. Robotics has also become part of Radley’s Partnerships Programme, with local primary school pupils in areas of low STEM provision learning directly from Radley boys. At Pegasus Primary School, a priority neighbourhood that does not usually have access to such opportunities, regional VEX events have been hosted. Hosting these events marks a significant step forward, raising ambition and aspiration among the children; the sense of pride is palpable. For these young learners, being coached by a team that’s been to the World Championships is both motivating and inspiring. The Radley Robotics Programme now looks ahead with renewed momentum and ambition. Icarus leaves behind a legacy of excellence; Ibex is already planning its next campaign. The generosity of our supporters has made this journey possible – and is helping us inspire the next generation of engineers, problem-solvers and collaborators.
The Vex Robotiics UK National Championships 2025
