Learning Pathway

Find the right stage for your child.

Six stages from first build to world-class robotics — matched to age and readiness, not just grade.

The Six Stages

One pathway. Six stages. Clear next steps.

Every stage has a focus and a visible exit — parents always know what comes next.

Stage 1 · Ages 5-7

Discovery

Hands-on exploration with big, friendly builds — confidence before complexity.

Next: Cadet

Stage 2 · G1-G2

Cadet

Structured builds, simple mechanisms, and the first teamwork habits.

Next: Junior

Stage 3 · G3-G4

Junior

First programming, sensors, and mission-style challenges.

Next: Senior · RoboBattle Cup

Stage 4 · G5-G7

Senior

Autonomous systems, engineering notebooks, and competition strategy.

Next: Elite · FLL & VIQRC teams

Stage 5 · G8-G9

Elite

Advanced design and iteration at competition pace.

Next: Pro · V5RC teams

Stage 6 · G9-G12

Pro

Leadership, season strategy, and world-stage competition.

Next: World-stage events

Inside the Program

What the stages actually look like.

Building, testing, driving, fixing — the same loop at every stage, with the stakes rising as students move up.

Students gathered around a table adjusting their VEX IQ robot between matches

Build session
Two RoboPlanet students driving their VEX IQ robot on the competition field

Driving practice
Team members working together on their robot in the pit area at the US Open

Pit work
Students at the controls during a VEX IQ match, teammates watching

Match control

Two Ways to Learn

Regular program or competition team?

Most students start in the regular program. Teams are an optional next step — entered by assessment, never by pressure.

Open enrollment

Regular Program

  • Weekly classes matched to your child’s stage.
  • Project-based curriculum with visible builds every term.
  • Progress reviews and a clear promotion path.
  • A complete pathway on its own — competition optional.

Entry by team assessment

Competition Team

  • A season schedule: training, scrimmages, tournaments.
  • Deeper commitment — for the student and the family.
  • Coached team roles and engineering notebooks.
  • For students ready to test their skills for real.

Learn about competition teams

Short on time? Start with Summer Camp.

One week of building, programming, and teamwork — a low-commitment way to see if the pathway fits.

Explore Summer Camp

Questions Parents Ask

Age, experience, and moving up.

What age can my child start?

Programs start at age 5. The five entry groups (Ages 5-7, G1-G2, G3-G4, G5-G7, G8-G12) map onto the six stages — a trial class confirms the right fit.

Does my child need any experience?

No. Stages are matched by age and readiness, not experience. New students at any age start at the right point of the pathway — not the back of the line.

How does my child move to the next stage?

By readiness, not just birthdays. Instructors track progress through each stage’s milestones and recommend promotion when a student is ready.

Is competition required?

No. The regular program is a complete pathway on its own. Competition teams are an optional branch, entered through a team assessment when a student is ready and interested.

Not sure where to start?

Book a trial class — we’ll match your child’s age, experience, and goals to the right stage.

Book Trial