Acadia Robotics FAQ
Do you have after-school programs or teams at Acadia?
Acadia Robotics functions as hosts and support staff for individually run teams in the Atlantic Provinces. To support unbiased, fair competition, Acadia Robotics does not coach teams. Workshops are scheduled as infrequent, one-day events that are open to teams and public youth,and require chaperone attendance.
FIRST has announced changes to their programming through FLL Future Edition and Founders edition; which will be offered at Acadia?
FIRST and LEGO have announced that the 2026-26 season will be the final year of FIRST LEGO League, both Founders and Future Editions, across the globe. Acadia Robotics is not planning tohost FLL Future Edition, but is currently assessing overall program options for the upcoming season. The 2026-27 competition lineup will be formally announced in Summer 2026. Thank you for your patience and understanding.
Robofest is not partnered with FIRST nor LEGO, and is consequently not affected by these recent changes. Acadia Robotics will continue to host both Junior and Senior Robofest Game.
My student is outside the grade requirements for participation. Can they compete?
FLL Challenge - FIRST maintains that participants must be within the parameters of age (9-14) OR grade (4-8). For example, if a student is younger than the age minimum but within the grade range, they may participate. If a student is in a higher grade but within the age range, they may participate. Special exceptions based on maturity or unique circumstances can be discussed with staff.
Robofest – Robofest Game is open to grades 5-8 (Jr) and 9-12 (Sr). Younger grade students may submit a form through Robofest to request to “play up,” if there is a case to support that student will face reasonable challenge for their skill level. Similarly for older students under special circumstances, coaches may discuss possibilities with Acadia robotics and Robofest staff.
Is there funding available?
Please visit our Expenses and Funding page for a list of available financial support. Acadia Robotics is an externally funded, charitable organization, and relies on sponsorships to provide funds that can be directed to teams.
Where can I get a table for my Robot Game setup?
FLL Challenge: Robot Game tables can be constructed following the dimensions and instructions provided by FIRST. Alternatively, teams can set up the Challenge Mat on the floor or flat surface, with or without constructed perimeter walls (table as above, without bottom). Table is optionalfor practices, but recommended so that teams can anticipate the robot’s environment at the competition.
Robofest: the Robofest Game is setup on a folding table, following the dimensions and descriptions outlined in the Official Game Rulebook.
I’m outside of Nova Scotia; can I compete at Acadia?
Acadia Robotics welcomes Robofest teams from Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and New Brunswick, and FLL Challenge teams from NS and PEI.
Who can coach a team? Do I need to have experience with robotics?
Any adult over 18 can coach a robotics team, not just teachers. Coaching is about facilitating youths’ pursuit of STEM education, offering guidance and encouragement as they work as a team to develop problem-solving skills. Familiarizing yourself with basic programming skills is beneficial, but no formal training or experience is needed for you to learn alongside your students. They might even end up teaching you!
What is included in the $175 Acadia RPC Site fee?
The site fee paid by each team is a contribution towards the cost of lunch, competition materials, and t-shirts that all participants receive on event day. Despite climbing costs, Acadia Robotics has not increased the site fee in over a decade.
Can I coach multiple teams?
Yes, you can coach more than one team, and coach teams in both competitions. Mentors or assistant coaches are also welcome to support lead coaches.
Are there regional or qualifying events?
No, currently all FLL Challenge and Robofest teams advance directly to the Acadia Championship. There may be optional, for-fun events for FLL Challenge teams hosted by NSCCin the winter. These events are an opportunity for practice but are not official competitions. Dates and locations will be announced by email in October-November each year.
Where can I buy a LEGO robot of my own?
Purchases can be made through Spectrum Educational Supplies (Canada). For a competition-ready set of parts, we recommend purchasing both the SPIKE Prime core set (SKU 735048) and the expansion set (SKU 735047). Please note that the SPIKE Prime model is being retired on June 30, 2026. While manufacturing will cease, robots can still be purchased while supplies last, and LEGO has confirmed that the associated programming software will continue to be supported until 2031.
Do you run robotics programs for university-aged students?
While housed in Acadia University, Acadia Robotics currently focuses work on youth in grades 4-12. University students are encouraged to volunteer during the Robot Programming Competitions to serve as positive role models of young adults pursuing STEAM education.
How long of a commitment is volunteering?
There is flexibility in time given as a volunteer, all is appreciated. Judges, Referees, and Pit Runners are the most needed volunteer roles (descriptions available on Volunteer page) and will require several hours of preparation in the months prior to the competition. This includes 1-3 in-person or online training sessions (1-3 hours), as well as individual review of materials and rules. We appreciate the donation of time to ensure positive experiences for children, honouring their dedication to the competition by appropriately assessing and recognizing their work.
Shorter commitment volunteer items include tasks like building LEGO or helping setup the night before the RPC.
How old do I have to be to volunteer?
The minimum age to volunteer is 18. Please contact our staff or have an adult contact us to discuss possible exceptions for youth involvement.