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The Franklin EPro8 Challenge, an annual inter-school science, technology, engineering and
mathematics (STEM) competition, aims to spark creativity, teamwork and problem-solving in the next generation of engineers.
This year, students from across Franklin competed at St Joseph’s School in Pukekohe, tackling mechanical and electrical challenges with skill and ingenuity. In the Year 5–6 category, Karaka School won first place, with Pukekohe Christian School in second and Opaheke School claiming third. In Year 7–8, Pukekohe Intermediate won both first and second place, while Ararimu School took third.
Pukekohe Intermediate School digital technology specialist teacher Freya Wolfe said to prepare for the competition, students practised most Friday mornings with different pieces of equipment – electronics, pulleys, wheels, math layouts, and more.
“On competition day, they get given a lot of equipment they haven’t necessarily used before … but there are examples at the front, and the guy talks them through beforehand. So, it’s a lot of teamwork and problem solving and kind of understanding what the question asks you to do.”
Pukekohe Intermediate student Zara said that one of the most challenging parts of the
competition was when they blew a bunch of fuses.
“It was very stressful having to call over the judge who enjoyed being called ‘Your Majesty’.
Another challenge we faced was when we built the whole build completely wrong, we were
really bummed but eventually we completed it!”
Fellow student Hudson said: “I enjoyed making new friends, teamwork, and thinking hard to solve a problem. The thing I was most proud of was the foosball table, having to link the wiring and electronics together.”
Counties Energy sponsors the Year 5–6 and Year 7–8 categories of Franklin EPro8, giving
students hands-on opportunities to explore science and technology through real-world
challenges, that develop creativity, teamwork and engineering skills.
Counties Energy general manager commercial and corporate affairs Andrew Toop said
supporting young talent in the community is a key part of the company’s commitment to future-focused education.
determination. The EPro8 Challenge encourages curiosity and innovation from an early age,
showing how exciting careers in STEM can be. We’re proud to support a programme that builds confidence, teamwork and problem-solving skills,” Toop said.
