Scalextric4Schools: A Day of Innovation and Racing at Silverstone

Published 5th July 2024

We had the opportunity to attend the Scalextric4Schools competition in June held at the iconic Silverstone Museum.

Over 500 schools participate annually, many incorporating the competition into their curriculums. Students aged 11 to 18 have been designing, manufacturing, testing, and refining their slot cars with ten teams making it to the finals. The teams had the opportunity to race their cars on a landscaped Scalextric layout and presenting to a panel of judges on how they designed, manufactured, and tested their cars.

The event was a fantastic blend of innovation, education, and the excitement of racing, bringing together young minds from across the UK to showcase their talents in design and technology.

Silverstone Museum provided a perfect backdrop for this event. With its rich motorsport history, the museum provided an impressive backdrop for the competition.

Energy and Excitement

From the moment we arrived, the excitement in the air was palpable. Twenty teams from eleven different schools had gathered, each filled with anticipation and pride in their creations. It was clear that they had poured their hearts into these projects, and their enthusiasm was infectious.

"The students from Elizabeth Woodville School had a great time at the Scalextric4Schools race day. They enjoyed being interviewed by the local news and track fans YouTube channel. Everyone worked really well as a team both in the presentations and driving on the track. The Year 7 students didn't win this year but learnt a lot, they will practice their driving and design some even better cars for next year." - Michael Pearce, Elizabeth Woodville School

Dedication and Knowledge on Display

The competition was more than just a race; it was a celebration of creativity and technical skill. Each team used computer-aided design (CAD) software to create their car’s blueprint before bringing their designs to life using 3D printing technology. Seeing how these young minds tackled the challenge with innovative solutions was incredible.

We spoke with a student from team Velocity, who talked us through their design and the time and dedication it took to get to where they are today. Their explanations were not just about the “what” but also the “why” and “how,” showing a deep understanding of the principles behind their designs.

The competition provided a hands-on experience that many students found deeply engaging. It was a reminder of the importance of practical, tactile learning experiences, especially in our increasingly screen-dominated world. At the same time, the event underscored the vital role of digital skills, as students utilised advanced software and 3D printing technology to bring their designs to life.

A Glimpse into the Future

It wasn’t just about winning or losing; it was about learning, improving, and fostering a passion for design and technology. The dedication and knowledge these kids displayed were nothing short of inspiring.

Find out more about Scalextric4schools