What if the thrill of Formula One racing could inspire tomorrow's engineers? That's exactly what's happening with Scalextric4Schools, a nationwide initiative that's transforming how students engage with STEM subjects across the UK.
The iconic slot car racing brand Scalextric is challenging secondary school students to design, build, and race their own cars. From aerodynamics to weight distribution analysis, students learn real-world engineering principles and experience the same technical challenges faced by professional Formula One teams. The program includes over 30 UK schools, with growing international interest from the US and Australia. Students use the same tools and techniques used by major engineering companies, including professional CAD software, 3D printing and laser cutting.
Our host Paul Haimes travelled to Hornby Hobbies in Margate, UK, to speak with Simon Owen (Head of Brand at Scalextric), Simon Hooker (Project Lead for Scalextric4Schools), Anthony (a dedicated teacher from Bishop's Blue Coat School), and Izzy, a student whose engineering journey was sparked by the competition. He discovered how the program is bridging the engineering skills gap, inspiring students who might never have considered STEM careers, and connecting classroom learning with real industry practices.
Find out more about Scalextric4Schools here.
Find out more about Creo here.
Your host is Paul Haimes from industrial software company PTC.
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This is an 18Sixty production for PTC. Executive producer is Jacqui Cook. Location recording by Hannah Dean. Sound design and editing by Clarissa Maycock. Music by Rowan Bishop.