Lenovo F1 in Schools UK finals set to showcase student STEM talent and engineering skill in Rotherham
Here at ETIH, we’re big Formula 1 fans, so we were excited to learn that the Lenovo F1 in Schools UK National Finals 2024/25 are just around the corner.
Magna Science and Adventure Centre in Rotherham are set to host over 100 teams of students from March 25 to 27. The competition, which is one of the largest STEM events of its kind in the UK, will bring together students from across the country to design, build and race miniature F1 cars using industry-grade technology and skills.
The first day will feature the largest ever Primary F1 in Schools National Finals, with over 60 teams of students aged 9–11. They’ll be judged not only on the speed of their cars but also on design, engineering, and presentations, with one team earning the title of Primary National Champions.
From March 26, secondary school teams (ages 11–19) will compete using CAD/CAM and CNC tools to engineer their own high-speed models. Their performance will be assessed through verbal presentations, technical portfolios, and scrutineering by a panel of STEM experts.
The prize on offer includes an invitation to the Aramco STEM Racing World Finals 2025 in Singapore, a full Aston University scholarship for one student, and two work experience placements at the Atlassian Williams Racing F1 team.
Tom Milner, Project Director at F1 in Schools, stated:
“We’ve had 26 Regional Finals and there’s been some amazing work from the students, with fast cars, great project work and plenty of creativity on show, so I’m expecting the race to the podium to be very tight.
“The F1 in Schools competition sparks a passion for STEM in students, equipping them with both academic knowledge and essential life skills that will benefit their future careers. Hands-on, practical learning is a powerful way to engage and inspire young minds, and we’re proud that F1 in Schools plays a key role in their development—combining education with the excitement of Formula 1.”
The event comes on the heels of an exciting Grand Prix weekend in Shanghai, where McLaren’s Oscar Piastri clinched his first ever F1 victory, leading a one-two finish with teammate Lando Norris. Not bad for a team that was near the back of the grid a few years ago.
Celebrating its 25th year, F1 in Schools has helped launch careers in engineering, aerodynamics, design and other sectors, with several former participants now working directly in the motorsports industry. And with inspiration from a McLaren win still fresh in the air, there’s no better time for students to get a taste of F1-level STEM learning.
