On hand to add their praise and support for all the girls are achieving were sponsors Karen Ellis, CEO of Ellis Clowes, a leading independent Lloyd’s of London insurance broker that specialises in high level motorsport; Rob Arnott, A Formula 1 race engineer and team manager who is currently working with Andretti Autosport on their Formula-E project and James Robinson, a race engineer working with Le Mans Heidfield/Prost.
The evening, which included a formal dinner and a very successful auction of promises, was hosted by sixth form students Gaby Lau, 17, from Hong Kong and Amy Purohit, 17, from Zelah, who introduced the guest speakers. Awards were presented to each of the school’s three green-power teams. The Green Goddess prize went to Amira Ellery, 12, from Ladock and Dotty Squibb, 12, from Redruth, the Silver Shadow prize to Gisele Parnall, 14, from Camborne and Chloe White, 14, from Bissoe and the Kernow Kittz award went to Mary Lau, 16, from Hong Kong.
“I’m delighted that Ellis Clowes is involved with this impressive project,” said Karen Ellis who told her audience of the challenges she faced when she first entered the industry as one of its only female Lloyd’s brokers. “Building these cars teaches the girls so much about teamwork – one of life’s most important lessons.”
Rob Arnott, who helped unveil a new green-powered car for the Truro High teams during the evening, said he had been inspired by the students’ enthusiasm.
“Andretti want to look after you ladies so you can become our engineers of the future,” he said. “Sustainability has become a key issue for motor-racing and it’s also very important that the sport engages young people. I love what Truro High is doing – it’s fantastic and we’re really pleased to be supporting their teams.”
Truro High’s Head of Science Jon Dean has been overseeing the Green Power engineering project since he joined the school three years ago.
“When we started, the cars were only capable of going at about 7 miles an hour but, thanks to the girls’ commitment and dedication, they are now capable of travelling at much higher speeds,” he said. “The girls have all worked together really well and everyone involved can be very proud of their remarkable achievements. I certainly am.”
