Pupils race to success as they scoop F1 honour
A MODEL car that reaches 85mph in less than a second has got pupils from Porthcawl Primary to the top of the podium in a national Formula One-based challenge.
Their balsa-wood design clinched victory in the UK final of the Formula One in Schools – Jaguar Primary School Challenge held at Coventry’s Ricoh Arena.
The Porthcawl Power team – made up of six students aged 10 and 11 – beat off competition from 24 other schools to take the title after successfully completing five stages of judging, which were overseen by experts from the automotive industry.
They had earned their place in the final after their car was the fastest at the regional South Wales heat when propelled using an air canister.
Deputy head teacher Evan Richards said: “Our school very much enjoys taking part in this annual competition and we’re extremely proud of the pu- pils’ outstanding achievement.
“The help we received from EESW, which promotes engineering studies in schools, was invaluable. We are also very grateful for the support that we have received from parents, and our sponsors.
“Work is already well underway on our 2017 car.”
The team has even been mentioned in the House of Commons, with Bridgend MP Madeleine Moon congratulating her young constituents, while one of the pupils spoke to DJ Chris Evans live on his Radio Two breakfast show.
Councillor Huw David, Bridgend County Borough Council’s deputy leader, said: “It is an exceptional achievement to win a UK-wide competition so huge congratulations are extended to everyone involved at Porthcawl Primary School.
“With the Ford Engine Plant playing such a key role in the local economy and Aston Martin’s investment in a new super-car plant just up the road in St Athan, there has never been a better time for local children to take an interest in the science, technology, engineering and maths skills that are so critical in the automotive industry.
“It is also pleasing to see so many girls on the Porthcawl Power team as these subjects aren’t traditionally the ones that girls enjoy as much as boys.
“This competition has required the pupils to demonstrate a broad range of skills, from using computer-aided design software to create their model car, to presenting their ideas clearly and concisely to the competition’s judges.”
Among the local companies that supported the school were Wulf Race Clothing, Auto Barnes Wales, Willmott Dixon, BMW Sytner, and the Sony Technology Centre.