Supporting Local School’s FI Race

Hitchin Boys’ School is proud to be involved with the F1 in Schools STEM Challenge.

This exciting initiative encourages teams of three to six students to use 3D CAD (Computer Aided Design) software to design and build a miniature F1 car of the future. Hitchin Boys’ School (HBS) has entered two teams of four Year 8 students who can’t wait to create their vision and see their cars race on an international stage. Their cars will compete on the F1 in Schools racetrack!

It’s a very complex project and a rare opportunity for the students involved. Once their F1 car is designed, each team:

• analyses the aerodynamics,
• evaluates the most efficient machining strategy to make the car, and
• tests the aerodynamics in wind and smoke tunnels.

The teams then create their group identity and pit display along with a presentation of their car and marketing plan. Following ‘real’ F1 practises, each team must attract sponsors and secure a budget.

The HBS REVVengers team is enjoying seeing their design come to life, having almost finished the first phase of construction. They now move from a foam prototype to building the model car intended to power along the 20-metre F1 in Schools racetrack. Speeds could reach up to 75 kph!

The EMH Technology team was asked to consider contributing towards HBS’ F1 challenge. “We are happy to be involved with this inspiring programme, especially as the F1 initiative supports STEM in schools,” says Eric Hughes of EMH Technology.

(STEM stands for sciences, technologies, engineering and mathematics. As well as developing skills and knowledge in each individual subject, STEM-related education and training aims to develop young people’s ability to work across disciplines through project-based learning.)

Eric adds: “We wish both HBS teams every success and hope they enjoy the chance to build and race their F1 cars.”