Top speed ahead as university helps pupils in F1 project

‌Pupils from the Charlton School, in Wellington will be taught the basics of Computer Aided Design (CAD) at the University to improve their chances in the F1 in Schools Technology Challenge.

This is a competition organised by Formula 1 which challenges pupils from secondary schools, sixth form colleges, colleges of further education and other organised youth groups to design and manufacture carbon dioxide-powered miniature model racing cars.

Student teams will compete against each other at the World Championships to determine the best-engineered and fastest car in the world.

Youngsters from Charlton are taking part and the University of Wolverhampton has agreed to give them lessons in CAD to help them with their projects.

They will attend around half a dozen sessions, given by the University’s Faculty of Science and Engineering, at the computer labs in the Telford campus.

Jon Rackley, Senior Consultant from the faculty, said: “I will just be working with them developing CAD skills so they can participate in this challenge.

“The idea is we teach them basic 3D modelling on the computer, using some advanced software, and then they can use these 3D models to create the actual physical product.

“The project is a great way to really inspire a love of technology, design and computing in young children while also forging strong links with schools in the community which could lead to long term engagement with the University.”

The school will enter the regional final of the competition, held in Birmingham on January 22. If successful, it will go on to the national and then international rounds.

ENDS

For more information please contact Chris Jones in the Media Relations Office on 01902 322736

Date Issued: Wednesday, January 8, 2013