W5 is proud to once again welcome FIRST® Tech Challenge teams to Belfast throughout the 2026/27 season, hosting a series of events where young innovators can put their robotics skills to the test, refine their designs, and compete alongside teams from across the region.
Find out more about how to get your class involved.
What is FIRST® Tech Challenge?
FIRST® Tech Challenge (FTC) is a global robotics competition that challenges students to think like engineers, programmers and problem-solvers.
Working as a team, students design and build a robot to complete specific tasks within a sports-style competition. Teams then put their robots to the test against other teams, using strategy, programming and teamwork to tackle the challenge.
FTC is about more than building a robot. Students develop technical skills alongside communication, leadership, resilience and collaboration. Teams can also involve students with different interests and strengths, giving everyone an opportunity to contribute.
Teachers and coaches can access resources, training and a wider community of educators to support their teams throughout the season.
Introducing an exciting new theme
For the 2026/27 season, teams will take on BIOBUZZ, exploring ideas around biodiversity and the natural world.
The theme provides a starting point for teams to investigate, design and problem-solve while developing their robot for competition.
What can students gain from taking part?
FIRST® Tech Challenge gives students the opportunity to build skills that extend beyond the competition itself.
Through designing, programming and testing their robot, participants develop practical experience in engineering, coding and problem-solving. Working as a team also helps students build confidence in communication, leadership, collaboration and resilience.
The programme can also open doors to the wider STEM community, with participants gaining access to career discovery opportunities, scholarships, internships, mentorship and a global FIRST® community.
How does the competition work?
Teams begin by designing and building a robot capable of completing the tasks set out in the BIOBUZZ challenge.
As they prepare for competition, teams can test their designs, make improvements and develop their strategy before taking part in events against other teams.
W5 will host events throughout the season to give teams opportunities to practise, compete and prepare for the NI/ROI qualifying tournament.
How do teams get involved?
Getting started with FTC is simple. The first step is to register your interest with FIRST® Tech Challenge UK here, which will provide all the information you need to begin your journey.
Once registered, you can form a team. Most teams comprise small groups of students, often organised through schools or youth groups, and guided by a teacher, mentor or volunteer. The size and structure of each team can be flexible, allowing students with different skills and interests to take part.
As part of the process, you can also join a wider community of young people, educators, and mentors participating in the challenge. The FIRST® website offers a wealth of resources to support your team and provides opportunities to connect with others taking part across the UK and beyond.
Key dates for the 2026/27 season at W5/W5 LIFE
- Scrimmage 1 - Friday 13 November 2026
- Scrimmage 2 - Friday 22 January 2027
- NI/ROI Qualifying Tournament - Monday 1 March 2027
Ready to get involved?
Whether you're completely new to competitive robotics or already have experience with FIRST® programmes, the FIRST® Tech Challenge is an opportunity to get hands-on with robotics and tackle real-world challenges.
Get your team started and prepare to take on BIOBUZZ at W5!