This required them to combine their Computing, Engineering and Science learning plus draw on their metacognitive skills and oracy. 

Entries were presented at the London regional event. West Lodge teams won both award categories; ‘Engineer Level Award’ and ‘Best Theme’. 

Every child gained valuable oracy skills via a detailed panel interview with two engineers, explaining each step of their process and how their designs were augmented by using 3D design (Tinkercad). They had the opportunity to rigorously test and iterate their designs, which they visibly embraced with excitement.  

As an experienced medical engineer, I am very impressed with how West Lodge are keen to inspire future engineers, especially with the ICT facility, meaning children could learn how to make their own wheels and body shell.  I too learned so much about 3D printing (including from the children).  The best bit was seeing the children’s’ faces when their cars worked for the first time. 

Primary Engineer volunteer Ian Chell MSc FSRP