New era F1 car admired by new generation of scientists as Brock celebrates British Science Week

Pupils from Ballard School and Priestlands School visited Brockenhurst College this week to enjoy British Science Week attractions that included a Formula 1 car featuring innovations from the sport’s new era.

The smaller, lighter Oracle Red Bull Racing car runs on 50% electricity and was loaned to Brockenhurst College by race partner ExxonMobil.

ExxonMobil also sent ambassadors to explain recent technical changes to the car, which represent the biggest rules shakeup in F1 history.

Designed and built in Britain, it is like the one driven by F1 ace Max Verstappen.

The dazzling spectacle was part of a much wider programme of events designed to educate and inspire young scientists aiming for careers in STEM sectors.

More than 150 pupils from the two feeder schools participated in curriculum talks by Brock lecturers, covering physics, engineering, psychology, sport science, maritime industries, environmental science, and health and social care.

Some also joined Brock students for talks by STEM academics from nearby universities.

Psychology professor Katherine Appleton from Bournemouth University delivered a presentation about her research into human eating behaviour.

Meanwhile, Research Fellow from University of Southampton, Dr Laura McCormick, hosted a talk about chemistry.

Other attractions included TECH+TOUR, which is a modified vehicle packed with leading-edge digital technology that Brock operates alongside other colleges to promote courses and careers in the digital, maritime and net-zero sectors.

Ballard School’s Head of Science, Aaron Markar, said: “Our pupils really enjoyed this year’s British Science Week. The mix of practical workshops, specialist talks and challenging physics sessions kept them engaged throughout, and it was clear how much they valued hearing directly from people working in STEM. It had a genuine impact and sparked a lot of good conversations afterwards.

“Brock gives our pupils a chance to take what they learn in school even further. Meeting professionals, exploring real equipment and seeing science in action widens their sense of what’s possible and supports them as they start thinking more seriously about future choices.

“The days there build confidence, stretches their thinking and helps them see themselves in a much wider range of STEM pathways. The Laureate sessions push pupils to grapple with ideas well beyond the curriculum, and that level of challenge really motivates them. Overall, they come away better informed and more ambitious.

“We keep returning because the programme is consistently strong and genuinely worthwhile for our pupils. The staff at Brock put a lot of thought into the content, and each year offers something new that enriches our students’ understanding of STEM. It’s always a valuable experience, and the pupils get a great deal from it”

Thursday evening saw the college stage its STEM Awards ceremony, which recognised and celebrated the achievements of top-achieving students across the full range of STEM subjects.

It was hosted by Brock Principal & CEO Helen Odhams and was sponsored by Osprey Charging, with South Coast Institute of Technology director Matt Johnson giving a keynote speech.

Each winner collected a framed certificate containing a citation, along with a cheque for either £50 or £25, depending on whether they had won a Gold Award or a Silver Award.