This year the challenge began in February and focused on STEAM – Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths. The challenge was simple: build the biggest, most creative, most technically competent RUBE Goldberg machine we could, using as many students as possible.
A RUBE Goldberg machine is a contraption, invention, device or apparatus that is deliberately over-engineered to perform a simple task in a complicated fashion, generally including a chain reaction. The expression is named after American cartoonist and inventor Rube Goldberg (1883–1970).
The competition was intense with students participating from 42 Nord Anglia schools in North America, Europe, South East Asia, China and the Middle East. BIS students had to think big and be ambitious. School wide participation was encouraged, and a remarkable student-led momentum was formed, and with this, the size of the machine increased in size. We had students from F 1 to Year 13 working together, exploring ideas and creating the end result.
“The whole school community was involved, students from EYFS to IB, teaching staff, support staff and our parents donating household items. Thank you to each and every one of you. The students involved showed exactly what BIS is about – they showed great collaboration, commitment, leadership and good humour throughout the whole process. We are extremely proud of their achievement, and looking forward to defending our title next year!”- Sean O’Neill, Assistant Headteacher
Whilst things didn’t always work first time, our students persevered, collaborating with each other to find solutions. They never gave up, and the final product was worth every effort. Not only did our RUBE Goldberg machine involve students from all age groups, and showcase different departments within the school, but it also crossed a road in Vietnam. No easy task!
“This was incredible! We couldn’t believe the tour that took place around your whole school and that so many students and faculty were a part of its creation. We particularly enjoyed the drama interlude and how people became an expression of the machine’s spirit. Absolutely wonderful, Ho Chi Minh City!” – Judge’s Comments