Saturday Masterclasses - Scalextric4Schools
Over four Saturday morning sessions, students worked in small groups to design and manufacture miniature Scalextric cars using CAD/CAM design principles.
They engaged in graphic design through the customisation of their cars and worked with advanced technologies such as 3D printers.
The last session ended with the students testing and racing their designs on a custom made Scalextric track.
The Scalextric 4 Schools Challenge launched in January 2009 offers a low cost and multi-disciplined opportunity for schools to deliver Design & Technology.
Aims
The competition aims to inspire young students to consider design and engineering in higher education and as careers. Over 500 schools participate annually, many incorporating the competition into curriculums, particularly in Design & Technology.
Background
Partnership schools identified a gap in provision of extra-curricular clubs/activities focussing on DT and engineering.
Saturday Masterclasses take place annually, with a different focus each year.
Resources
The sessions were run by three members of academic staff from partnership school The Bishops' Blue Coat Church of England High School.
Each session was four hours long.
Impact
Video testimonials, pupil interviews, online survey results:
90% of respondents used specialist equipment and software previously not encountered.
100% of respondents have since used new skills in their own school setting.
Pupil Involvement
20 Year 8 students took part in all four sessions.
Frequency
Saturday Masterclasses take place annually, with a different focus each year.
