The F1 in Schools competition involves teams of students designing and manufacturing CO2-powered model F1 racing cars using computer aided design software and computer aided manufacturing techniques (CAD/CAM).
EESW receives funding from the Welsh Government Education Directorate to support maintained secondary schools in Wales therefore the F1 in Schools registration fee does not apply, however we ask for a contribution of £45 per team towards the manufacturing of one car and competition running costs.
EESW can provide a support visit to your school to ensure you and your pupils have everything you need to take part.
Schools can enter up to 5 teams of 3-6 pupils to take part in designing and manufacturing the fastest car possible, emulating the processes employed by real engineering companies before preparing their cars ready to race. Teams are assessed on the speed of the car, design and engineering, verbal presentation and even their pit display.
Teams compete for prestigious awards with the chance of representing Wales at the National and World Finals.
If you would like more information on how to register and how we will support your school through the competition, please contact us.
The challenge inspires students to develop their STEM skills and 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.
EESW STEMCymru can also deliver in-school race days, tailored to your needs. This can involve whole classes or year groups and can be delivered in your school hall. Winning teams may then be selected to attend the regional finals.
Would your team benefit from a session on aerodynamics and the chance to experiment with a scale size Wind Tunnel? Or perhaps your team have already manufactured their car and are looking to test it to see how well it performs?
EESW can provide wind tunnel testing either at our manufacturing centre or in the classroom, where pupils can learn how to improve the aerodynamics of their cars and turn great designs into winning designs.
Welsh teams taking part in the F1 in Schools challenge are eligible to have a car manufactured free of charge by EESW.
Teams are given the opportunity to visit their local centre to see their cars being manufactured in person and even take part in the process. For teams that are unable to visit, they can simply send their finished designs directly to us where they will be manufactured and returned by post.
"The F1 in schools competition has provided the department and the school with a fantastic focus for a range of pupils who are technically minded, creative and have an interest in business. For the last few months the students have immersed themselves every lunchtime in designing concepts, learning how to use 3D CAD, planning activities, raising money through contacting sponsors and manufacturing the race cars. This is the third year the school has competed and the competition is becoming ever more popular."
Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Bro Myrddin
"Pupils are engaged from the moment they start the project, real life skills that enhance their learning from the get go. Teams tackle challenges that test resilience and innovation, whilst developing teamwork and collaboration with businesses and manufacturers to create the perfect car.
Initial skills learnt within this challenge allow the pupils to work with others and learn about compromise and patience.
The enterprise and engineering aspects of the task allow pupils to research and develop knowledge of real problems that relate to the F1 world."
St John's College Cardiff
The F1 in Schools secondary school competition is part-funded by the Welsh Government Education Directorate.