Shire Christian School’s Robotics Program has achieved national recognition, with students earning top results and Enrichment Coordinator Mrs Leonie Hampson receiving the national robotics teacher of the year award at the 2025 RoboCup Junior Australia National Championships in Canberra.
Competing against 770 students from across the country, 29 students from Shire Christian School demonstrated exceptional teamwork and creativity across multiple divisions. The Year 7 OnStage Novice Team – Mia, Emmie, Caitlyn and Elise – achieved an impressive second place, while Lev and Hunter placed fifth out of 44 teams in Riley Rescue, with two other Shire Christian teams finishing in the top 20.
These strong results came as Mrs Hampson was awarded the University of Canberra Outstanding Teacher Award, following nominations from state chairs around the country. The award recognises a teacher who demonstrates exceptional leadership, encouragement and dedication to students in robotics.
Mrs Hampson expressed deep gratitude to the Shire Christian School community following the announcement.
“I am deeply grateful for the incredible support of our RoboCup families, whose encouragement and practical help have carried the teams and myself throughout the year,” she said.
“There’s nothing quite like the Shire Christian School families and staff who rally around each other – our community under Christ is a blessing and one I am so very thankful to be a part of.”
Head of Junior School Mrs Ruth Cooper commended Mrs Hampson, the students and all who contributed to the program’s success.
“A huge congratulations to Leonie Hampson for an incredible weekend at Nationals,” she said.
“Months of preparation, mentoring, and encouragement led to a positive weekend of competition, with a real sense of community for all our Shire Christian families.”
Mrs Hampson thanked Mrs Veltmeyer, Mr Pinn, and Mr and Mrs Charleston for their mentoring and support throughout the event.
“I also want to thank Mrs Karen Binns, Vice President of the National Junior RoboCup and NSW State Chair, for her integral support in our robotics program and for her enthusiasm and expertise in mentoring me.”
Mrs Hampson said it was a privilege to mentor such capable students.
“Our teams were outstanding in all their competitions, and I am incredibly proud of each one of them,” she said. “We give thanks to our Lord who sustained us throughout the weekend.”
The school community celebrated the national award at assembly on Friday and will recognise the student achievements next week, as a reflection of Shire Christian School’s strong culture of excellence, teamwork and Christian community.
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