Mulberry STEM Academy Takes on the Greenpower Challenge
Each year, the Greenpower Education Trust inspires young people from ages nine to 25 to design, build, and race their own electric car.
A team from the Mulberry STEM Academy took part in this year’s event, tackling the challenge for the very first time. They hit the iconic asphalt of the Goodwood Motor Circuit alongside 79 other cars for the competition’s flagship F24 and F24+ categories, for students aged 11-16.
In this category, Teams could either build a Kit Car or develop and create their own car from scratch, giving all participants the chance to sharpen their STEM skills.
The regional heats are comprised of four 20-minute races, which lead to an international final at the end of the season.
The Mulberry STEM Academy students put in a huge amount of effort and were thrilled to come away from the event at Goodwood with the ‘Best Newcomer Award’.
Peter Hodgkinson, Head of Employee Engagement at the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team, was on hand to offer the team expert advice and guidance.
“Attending the first Greenpower event with Mulberry Schools Trust was a real privilege,” said Peter. “To be there at Goodwood to see the kids and teachers experience their first real exposure to motorsport was a real joy and it reminded me how I felt the first time I went to a racetrack!
“The students learnt so much about racing, from the excitement of getting strapped into the car and running on track, to the low of not being quick enough, which got all our competitive juices following. Once we settled into the day and our roles, we were able to work on improving the performance of the cars, which the students had built only a few weeks ago.
“Considering that none of them had even held a spanner before this project, I think they have done a remarkable job. They have also been well supported by the exceptional teaching staff.
“Everyone really worked together as a team, preparing the cars, changing batteries, applying graphics, strapping in the drivers, and making setup changes. It was a true team effort, and I am already looking forward to the next race.”
About the Mulberry STEM Academy
Established in November 2020, the Mulberry STEM Academy will give students access to inspirational role models, imaginative teaching and rich extra-curricular experiences over a five-year period.
Built on core values of high performance, team spirit and the continual desire for new challenges, the partnership between the Mulberry Schools Trust and Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix will provide the foundations on which a lasting commitment can be built.
The Mulberry STEM Academy will be a powerful supplementary provision providing a specialised track for children and young people aged 7 to 18 who have talent, passion and aptitude in STEM education.