At YCIS Shanghai, robotics and digital technologies are thoughtfully integrated into Early Childhood regular classes and the Primary STEAM curriculum, guiding students to bridge creativity with technical literacy. 

Through a well-structured progression, students engage with age-appropriate learning platforms that nurture algorithmic thinking, engineering logic, and hands-on design skills.

In Early Childhood, technology is introduced through BeeBots, helping young learners understand direction, sequencing, and cause-effect thinking in playful and intuitive ways. 

At the Primary level, YCIS Shanghai students enter a rich and fortnightly STEAM curriculum where robotics is progressively integrated through hands-on design, coding, and AI learning experiences. 

Year 1–2: Introduction to basic digital design and logical sequencing through tools like Canva, VR exploration and basic VR environment design, and VEX 123 robots — encouraging early computational thinking. 

Year 3–4: Students advance to VEX GO, assembling and programming robots via iPads, learning fundamental mechanics and engineering principles.

Year 5–6: Students engage with VEX IQ robotics and explore projects such as integrating sensors into BBC micro:bit and Sphero Robotics, combining programming, and real-world problem-solving. 

"Students use the same robotics platform from Primary to Secondary," explained by Meghna Verma, YCIS Shanghai Puxi Primary Instructional Technology Coach. "This consistency allows them to transfer knowledge seamlessly and continuously refine their skills."

By Secondary, students are ready to expand their skills into advanced engineering and programming challenges. 

Robotics at YCIS Shanghai becomes both a core learning experience and a competitive platform, fostering critical thinking, teamwork, and innovation. 

Years 7–8 (Creative Technologies): Students program and design robots using VEX IQ and VEX VR, applying computational thinking to real-world tasks.

Year 9 (Coding Elective in Puxi, STEAM Elective in Pudong): Learners build on foundational skills to master more advanced coding and VEX V5 robotics, seamlessly bridging classroom theory with hands-on competitive robotics engineering practice.

IGCSE and IB Computer Science: Robotics projects integrate with algorithm design, automation, and control systems, deepening applied understanding.

Across our campuses, students have access to state-of-the-art Robotics Labs equipped with VEX kits, 3D printers, and AI-powered displays, creating an environment that mirrors real-world innovation hubs. 

 "Within robotics," says Mr. Vish Kapila, YCIS Shanghai Pudong STEAM Coordinator. "Students learn not only to build, construct, and code, but also to collaborate, communicate, and problem-solve. They experience error and learn resilience — understanding that it's okay when something doesn't work the first time. What matters is trying again, adjusting, and improving."

My biggest goal is to help them see robotics as a life skill — something beyond technology or career paths. It's about learning how to be part of a team, how to listen and adapt, and how to grow as a person. These are the skills that shape who they become in school, at work, and in society.

At YCIS Shanghai, the spirit of innovation extends far beyond the classroom. Students of all ages are encouraged to apply their creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving skills through a wide range of co-curricular opportunities. 

In Primary, CCAs such as Girls in STEM empower young learners to explore science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics with confidence and curiosity. The annual STEAM Omnia Exhibition further celebrates these achievements, showcasing projects that range from 3D printing and robotics to AI-driven art and digital design.  

In Secondary, the VEX Robotics CCA provides a structured pathway from VEX IQ (Years 7–9) to VEX V5 (Years 10–13), offering students the opportunity to collaborate, design, and compete at local and international levels. 

In addition, our students regularly participate in the National VEX Robotics Championship and other major regional tournaments, where they have earned numerous awards over the past few years. 

"The success of VEX Robotics at YCIS is grounded in our commitment to experiential learning," says Mr Anthony Sullivan, YCIS Shanghai Puxi Creative Technology Teacher. 

“Students do far more than build robots — they develop leadership, learn to iterate designs, test ideas, troubleshoot, and collaborate under pressure. These are the exact skills today's global industries seek in future engineers, designers, and innovators. Whether students join for fun, for challenge, or with ambitions to reach the World Championships, the robotics programme at YCIS offers an inclusive and inspiring journey into STEM.“

At YCIS Shanghai, robotics inspires more than technical skill — it cultivates curiosity, resilience, and the courage to create a better future.