Get ready to design, build, and battle in our Term 4 after-school program! In this exciting course, students will dive into the world of robotics by creating their very own lightweight sumo fighting robot.

Using professional 3D design software, Fusion 360, you'll learn to model and prototype multiple iterations of your robot. The goal? To design a bot that can push or flip its opponents out of the sumo ring.

Each participant will receive a robot kit, which includes all the essential parts you'll need: motors, electronics, and a Bluetooth controller. Once your design is finalized and 3D printed, the program will culminate in a thrilling competition where you'll put your robot's design to the ultimate test. Students can choose to work in pairs for a discounted cost.

As a bonus, the robots built in this program are also suitable for use in the "ant-weight" class at official battle bots competitions.

Please note: The cost of this program is higher than our usual offerings as it includes the price of all robot components.

This is a structured, focused learning experience that requires consistent engagement and active participation. Students will work individually, or in pairs, on their projects while collaborating in a supportive learning environment that emphasizes both creativity and technical precision.

3D Printed Sumo Robots runs Wednesdays over 8 sessions:

Session 1 - Wed 15 Oct - Introduction to Sumo Bots & Fusion 360
Session 2 - Wed 22 Oct - Prototyping - Chassis and Wheel Design
Session 3 - Wed 29 Oct - Interactive Design & Component Placement
Session 4 - Wed 5 Nov - Advanced 3D Modeling & Printing Preparation
Session 5 - Wed 12 Nov - 3D Printing & Assembly
Session 6 - Wed 19 Nov - Electronics & Control Systems
Session 7 - Wed 26 Nov - Test & Refine
Session 8 - Wed 3 Dec - The Competition

Program Details:

Time: 3:30 PM – 6:00 PM (Teaching starts at 4:00 PM)
Cost: $270 for all 8 sessions, for an individual robot.
Discount: If your child would like to build a robot with a partner, cost is $215 per person.
Ages: Open to students aged 11 to 17
Location: Building L3 - 1 Jarlo Drive, Lilydale

This program welcomes creative minds of all skill levels.

Program Benefits

Industry-Relevant Skills: Learn the same tools used by professionals worldwide
Creative & Technical Integration: Combine artistic vision with technical implementation
Problem-Solving Development: Build logical thinking through design
Collaborative Skills: Work with peers on testing, feedback, and iteration processes

What to Expect

Flexible Learning:

Work at your own pace with guidance and support from instructors
Choose challenges that match your comfort level - from simple modifications to complex creations
Collaborate with peers and learn from each other's different approaches
Get help when you need it, and help others when you can
Celebrate everyone's unique creative achievements

Supportive Environment: Each week builds on the previous one, but we understand everyone learns differently. Whether you're someone who picks up new concepts quickly or someone who likes to take their time, you'll find your place in this program. Our instructors are there to help you succeed at your own level.

Technical Requirements: No prior programming or game development experience required. Students should be comfortable using computers and willing to learn complex software interfaces.

About the Instructors: The program will be led by a team of passionate university students currently studying engineering or computer science, bringing both technical knowledge and fresh, real-world insights to the sessions. All instructors are employed by Box Hill Institute, hold valid Working with Children Checks, and are experienced facilitators of Yarra Ranges Tech School programs. With a strong background in STEM education and hands-on learning, they are well-equipped to support and inspire students throughout the Game Development journey.

Code of Conduct: This program is designed to provide a positive, hands-on learning environment focused on creativity, skill-building, and engagement. To ensure all students have the best possible experience, any student whose behaviour negatively impacts the learning of others will have their parent or guardian contacted for immediate pickup and will not be refunded for the session. Students are expected to engage with the learning content and actively participate in the design process. Students who do not engage with the learning or repeatedly disregard these expectations may be asked not to return.

Please note: Cost is $20 per hour, with the first hour of each session complimentary. Additional cost covers the robotics components,