The department has just received two Van Diemen Formula Vauxhall Junior chassis which will form the basis of a project for girls from 16 upwards to design, engineer, build and race cars for hill track and circuit competitions.
The chassis were kindly donated by Michael Boothroyd, a retired engineer.
Run on petrol, the cars will offer the school’s older students the opportunity to work on engines similar to those used in Formula 1. This will further their skills in metal fabrication, welding, rebuilding engines, clutches, gearboxes and brake assembly.
The school currently welcomes a number of high profile motorsports experts to support students both in the workshop and on the track. This dedicated team will continue to grow with Curtis Lee from Monster Truck, quad bike champion, Danielle Wittington, and automotive, construction & engineering lecturer, Nick Tillyer coming on board to support the project.
Hill climb competition lecturer, Andrew Dinner, will also be on hand to support girls with both the engineering and racing of the cars. Andrew has been competing in Motorsport for over 35 years.
The department is seeking engines and gearboxes which students can repurpose and use to rebuild the Formula Junior race cars. If you are able to offer your support, please contact Head of STEM, Mr Jon Dean, by emailing jdean@trurohigh.co.uk
This brand-new initiative will run alongside the school’s Greenpower Engineering Project, which currently sees girls from as young as 8 design, build and race their own solar-powered race cars. It is an inclusive team which any student can join and take part in local events as well as competing at world-famous racetracks, including Goodwood and Silverstone.
The unparalleled engineering opportunities on offer to girls at Truro High resulted in the school becoming the first in the country be recognised as an official motorsport club by Motorsport UK.
A first in UK automotive history, this enables students to be involved in high-profile events hosted by the organisation and even go all the way to operating trackside at international Formula 1 events.
