F1 in Schools is a multi-disciplinary challenge in which teams of students aged 11 to 14 deploy CAD/CAM software to collaborate, design, analyse, manufacture, test, and then race miniature gas powered balsa wood F1 cars. It is a unique global platform for the promotion of Formula One and partners to a youth market.
This year three teams from Stewart's Melville College will be representing the school at the Regional Finals on February 25th 2014. Team Bloodhound, Team Determinatum and Team Excel R8 have been busy working during their lunch breaks and after school, with the support of Mr Jackson and Mr Longair, to ensure they are ready to face the competition.
The boys are required to electronically design and then build a car to a technical specification. In parallel to the design they will formulate the artwork, allocate the manufacturing resources and raise sponsorship for their race car. Once they have generated sufficient sponsorship of £100 they can then manufacture the car, add their artwork/sponsors' livery and start testing performance. The propulsion system is an aerosol canister which, when punctured releases gases which propel the vehicle forward.
The challenge inspires students to use IT to learn about physics, aerodynamics, design, manufacture, branding, graphics, sponsorship, marketing, leadership/teamwork, media skills and financial strategy, and apply them in a practical, imaginative, competitive and exciting way.
Good luck in the Regional Finals boys.