King Edward's School TEams once again finalists in the pa raspberry pi competition
King Edward's School, Bath is delighted to announce that it is once again a finalist in the PA Raspberry Pi Competition, with two teams reaching the 2026 final in the Year 4–6 category.
The national competition, run annually by PA Consulting, is designed to inspire an early interest in STEM, coding and digital problemsolving, giving pupils the opportunity to develop technology-based products that can make a positive difference to people’s lives. The 2026 final will take place at Google HQ in London on Wednesday 6 May, with 11 pupils from Year 5 and 6 representing the School.
Building a positive human future
This year’s competition theme, “Building a Positive Human Future”, encouraged pupils to consider how technology can help create a world that is safer, healthier and happier. Teams were asked to think carefully about inclusivity, accessibility and sustainability, and how emerging technologies could be used responsibly to support people and communities.
Projects could align with five key areas, including healthier humans, a sustainable world, empowered consumers, safer societies and future organisations.
A history of success in the competition
KES has established a strong reputation in the PA Raspberry Pi Competition, reaching the national finals for the past four years consecutively. Previous teams have been recognised for their innovation and impact, including winning the Ingenuity Award in 2025, the Years 4–6 Innovation Award in 2024, and the Years 4–6 category award in 2022.
The 2026 KES finalist projects
The Raspberry Penguins team has developed a lost‑property scanning system designed to reduce waste and support sustainability in schools. Using QR‑coded labels and a Raspberry Pi‑powered scanner, lost items can be quickly identified and returned to their owner, saving time, reducing landfill waste and helping families avoid unnecessary replacement costs. The project places a strong emphasis on low‑energy technology and inclusive design.
Fun Fact: Did you know that during their research the Penguins found that on average:
- 90 million school items are lost each year in the UK
- On average pupils at KES misplace nine items per year, with uniform and pencil cases/stationary being the most mislaid items!
- In the last year alone 36 odd shoes had to be disposed of from the Junior school.
The Pi‑Pals team has created an interactive app to support children’s wellbeing in hospital. Designed for children who may be unable to take part in physical activities, the app enables users to connect with family and friends, explore educational content and reflect privately in a diary on how they are feeling. Particular care has been taken to ensure accessibility, with tailored features for children with dyslexia and ADHD, including the use of calming colours with the app to reduce overstimulation. Part of their presentation to judges includes the following rap explaining their app!
Meet Emma and her friends, trying to make a stand
Lending every child, a helping hand
Soft paws, big heart, always by your side -
Teaching and helping, we’re a gentle guide.
When the hospital feels busy, loud and new
The Pi-Pals and their toy are there for you!
Five creative children spreading courage and cheer
Turning tough days brighter just by being near
So whenever you feel worried, the Pi-Pals have your back
Healing magic in a tiny, unique pack!
Inspiring creativity and innovation
Reaching the final once again reflects the Pre-Prep and Junior School’s commitment to creative learning, problem‑solving and purposeful use of technology. At the Junior School campus, pupils benefit from specialist science, design technology and ICT facilities, and plans for the school’s new unified Pre‑Prep and Junior School campus include the development of an Innovation Hub, designed to further support learning.
