Connecting classroom learning with real-world innovation in F1

For a group of talented schoolchildren, this year’s British Grand Prix offered far more than the thrill of Formula One. With support from Aramco Europe, students from the Derby High School visited Silverstone for an immersive learning experience that connected classroom science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) with the fast-paced world of motorsport.

It represented a return to the home of British motorsport for the school which also participated in last year’s Innovation Lab event, held by Aramco Europe at the Silverstone Museum.

Hosted at the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team campus and the Advanced Manufacturing and Technology Research Centre (AMRTC), the event gave students behind-the-scenes access to one of the world’s most technologically advanced sporting environments. The visitors also participated in a Women in STEM panel featuring representatives from Aramco, F1 Academy and Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team. Panelists shared personal experiences and advice, encouraging students to remain curious, resilient and open to new opportunities as they pursue their ambitions.

Through engineering workshops, facility tours, trackside experiences and discussions with industry professionals, they gained first-hand insight into the skills and careers that power Formula One.

The Derby High School Assistant Headteacher Lynn Provoost, said: “Experiences like this have the power to transform aspirations. Visiting Silverstone gave our students an extraordinary insight into the world of F1, immersing them in an environment where innovation, teamwork and cutting-edge STEM come together at the highest level. 

“This partnership is about so much more than a single visit. It has challenged our thinking, inspired us to co-create an ambitious and innovative STEM curriculum, and strengthened our commitment to providing learning experiences that ignite curiosity, raise aspirations and prepare young people for the careers of the future.”

The visit formed part of Aramco Europe’s broader commitment to advancing STEM education through its citizenship program which enables collaboration with schools, educators and industry partners to inspire the next generation of innovators, engineers and problem-solvers. 

A highlight of the day was an interactive workshop where students met Aston Martin Aramco engineers and members of the team’s 3D printing operation. Several of the students were part of championship-winning STEM Racing teams preparing for the STEM Racing World Finals in Singapore later this year. Working alongside motorsport professionals, they explored ways to enhance the performance of their competition cars while receiving practical feedback on their designs and engineering approaches.

Beyond the workshops and panel discussions, participants enjoyed guided tours of the AMRTC, visits to the Formula One paddock and team garage, and the opportunity to experience the atmosphere of a Grand Prix weekend up close. The program concluded with students coming together to watch live Sprint Qualifying coverage, reinforcing the connection between the engineering concepts discussed throughout the day and the performance on track.