UPDATES

2009

The BAE systems and RAF Roadshow visited our Year 7's on Friday 2nd October. Their tour brought Science and Engineering to life through an interactive theatre show and supporting workshop. The morning was fun and gave students an insight into what it is like to be an Engineer. The objective was to challenge a young person’s perception of Engineering and to raise awareness of Engineering as a career choice.

During the workshop session a number of students were taught how to use programmable lego. These particular lego models can be programmed using easy to use, flowchart based software that is downloaded via a laptop. The students worked in small groups with BAE engineers to program their robot to navigate a pre constructed route. Time penalties were added on for hitting the rope and non-completion. The students worked extremely well in teams that they would not normally have chosen themselves; they behaved impeccably and were a credit to the school. The BAE engineers commented on how impressed they were with the level of teamwork and positive attitude of all those that took part.

The next stage for some of these students is to go on and compete in the National Lego League finals, where teams from around the country build robotic lego models. These models are then programmed to complete set challenges with points and pride at stake.

F1 in Schools

Working in teams of between 3 and 6, each student is assigned roles. The team prepares a business plan, develops a budget and raises sponsorship. Teams are encouraged to collaborate with Industry and forge business links. We have links with companies who provide us with the necessary sponsorship to take part in this competition. Using 3D CAD (Computer Aided Design) software, the team designs a Formula One car of the future. Aerodynamics are analysed for drag co efficiency in a virtual reality wind tunnel using Computational Fluid Dynamics Software (CFD). Using 3D CAM (Computer Aided Manufacture) software, the team evaluates the most efficient machining strategy to make the car. Aerodynamics are tested in wind and smoke tunnels. The team then races their cars at their regional finals. Cars race side-by-side along 20-metre straights. The cars travel at more than 60kph. Teams are judged on car speed, as well as supporting evidence of their design, verbal presentation and marketing display stand in ‘‘the pits”. Teams compete regionally, nationally and internationally for the Bernie Ecclestone F1 in Schools World Championship trophy.

Running the club enables students with an interest in this branch of engineering to develop a wide range of skills that link with an industry which is at the forefront of technological advancement in automotive engineering. Its main objective is to help change perceptions of engineering, science and technology by creating a fun and exciting learning environment for young people to develop an informed view about careers in engineering, Formula One, science, marketing and technology. The club also makes full use of all the hi-tech facilities at the school and enables the students to become experts in their use. The 3D router is used to manufacture the car. The 3D printer is used to make components parts such as the wheels. The laser cutter is used to manufacture promotional products and components for the pit area display.

Having reached the National Finals last year, the resulting newspaper articles obviously had a positive impact on the engineering status of the school. It gave students an unforgettable experience and gave them an invaluable insight into engineering as a career. It was also very positive to see that three out of the four team members were girls, reflecting that engineering is very much for all.

Cambridge University Visit

Cambridge University is internationally renowned for its academic excellence. Chelmer Valley High School are the only school to have formal links with Cambridge University outside of its immediate surroundings. This allows us to visit and work with engineering students as well as the highly qualified staff.

This year we visited the Institute for Manufacturing and were invited to tour the facilities and take part in many enjoyable and educational activities.

A big thank you to Dr Derek Ford & Alyson Lee for organising the trip and most importantly for arranging lunch, punting on the river Cam!

Click on the galleries section on this website for photographs of the day.

 

For more Engineering stories please click on the school's engineering magazine 'Cgynet' below.