STEM race day leaves learners ‘buzzing’

The young learners, from Aurora Ivy Lane School in Wakefield and R.E.A.L. Education Alternative Provision (AP) mechanics workshops in Mansfield and Nottingham City Centre, all built their own go-karts as part of the initiative, which applies science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) learning to a fun, real-world setting. 

Accompanied by Ivy Lane School Head Michael Walsh, R.E.A.L. AP’s Head of Area Nichola Goddard and Ops Director Adrian O’Malley, the team’s headed to Whilton Mill International Kart Circuit in Northamptonshire last month (June) to compete with their counterparts from schools across the country.

Michael said his team, comprising Leon, Alex, Billy, AJ, Dylan and Riley, were “buzzing” after the event, with some having enjoyed their first ever driving experience.

He said: “They came away having had a thrilling time. The day was made all the more rewarding for the students because of the work they had to do in order to get to race day – and the incredible teamwork that was involved.”

Michael paid tribute the determination, commitment and skill of the students, which saw them build a go-kart from scratch and then learn about motor mechanics and the practicalities involved in create a vehicle capable of competing at the circuit. 

He added: “It took a lot of effort to get here. There were staff and students who worked tirelessly behind the scenes, without whom the race day would not have been achievable. We already have a long list of students wanting to either return to or join Team Ivy Lane Racing for the 2027 season which, from the knowledge we have gained from this year, looks set to be another fantastic STEM learning experience!”

Echoing Michael’s positive comments about the event, Adrian also praised the two teams from R.E.A.L. AP: Finley, Dominic, Harry, Asher, Axel and Ollie based at Kings Mill Way workshop in Mansfield and Joe, Lee, Leighton, Ben, Tyler, Kayson and Alex, from the Sneinton workshop in Nottingham.

He said the event provided a great experience for all the teams’ members to be involved in a large event where they were able to showcase their karts and driving skills alongside schools from across the country.  

He said: “Our young learners coped extremely well with the whole day and showcased the amazing opportunities R.E.A.L. Education Alternative Provision and The Aurora Group provide for their young learners.”

Young driver Joe, from Sneinton, praised the event for being well organised and said the programme for the day was easy to follow. He said: “It was amazing. I really enjoyed it. I felt very supported by the teachers, who were very helpful. We spent a lot of time on the track but it was very warm – it made you feel like a hot water bottle.”

Nichola Goddard, R.E.A.L. Alternative Provision’s Head of Area, praised the young learners and said she couldn’t be prouder of the journey they’ve been on during the six-month project.

She said: “The growth in their knowledge and experience was really evident in terms of the way they applied themselves and worked as a team."

"Everyone, including our learners and their parents, felt the opportunity provided far more positive outcomes than expected and we were all so proud.” 

During the day, the young learners had the opportunity to visit a STEM careers fair, meet members of F1’s Team Alpine, see a real F1 car close-up and engage with a range of STEM education providers.