Barker's Robotics program continues to go from strength-to-strength demonstrating that Robotics is so much more than 'just the robot'.
Robotics at Barker
Robotics at Barker is one of the School’s flagship whole-school programs—hands-on, high-energy, and open to students from Year 1 through to Year 12. With hundreds of students involved, Barker offers three distinct robotics pathways that let beginners get started quickly and experienced students push into advanced design, manufacturing and software.
In 2022, Barker opened a purpose-built VEX Robotics lab and a dedicated FRC facility—giving students access to a full-size field and professional-grade spaces for design, prototyping, machining, coding, testing and strategy. It’s a true engineering environment where ideas move from concept to competition-ready robot.
No previous experience is required—just curiosity, enthusiasm and a willingness to learn. Training, support and guidance are provided by Barker technical staff, teachers and industry mentors, with students supported to grow at every stage.
Travel Opportunities
Competition is a key part of the Barker experience. All FRC team members participate in the Sydney regionals, showcasing their work alongside leading teams. Each year, students may also have the opportunity to attend an international regional—often in April—experiencing world-class events, global teamwork and the excitement of competing on an international stage.
VEX Robotics Competition students compete in tournaments throughout the year and may earn the opportunity to travel to the Australian Nationals and even the world championship in the USA by qualifying through tournament performance.
Our Awards
Since 2013, Barker has competed in the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC), placing our students on a global stage against some of the strongest teams in the USA and around the world.
Barker Redbacks has earned the prestigious FRC Chairman’s Award at the annual championship in Houston, Texas. We have also achieved consistent success across Asia-Pacific regional competitions and maintained a top-ten world ranking for our robotics program.
What makes these achievements especially meaningful is what they represent. The Chairman’s Award recognises impact—not just performance. Barker’s robotics philosophy is built on service and leadership: sharing ideas, mentoring other teams, and helping expand access to robotics, particularly for schools and communities facing disadvantage. The Barker Redbacks have supported the establishment and growth of robotics programs in China, Brazil, South America and India, as well as mentoring teams across Australia.
In recognition of this contribution, FIRST has inducted Barker into its Hall of Fame. Barker is the only school outside the United States to receive this honour, and the first and only Australian school to achieve this recognition.
Barker robotics students are making a contribution beyond the Mint Gates—developing real-world engineering capability, leadership and purpose. Each year they build ever more sophisticated robots, tackle complex challenges under pressure, and share their knowledge with teams around the globe—preparing not only for competition, but for future pathways in engineering, technology and innovation.
