SIXTH form pupils at a New Forest college were presented with a Formula 1 car during British Science Week. 

The Oracle Red Bull Racing car, which is similar to the one driven by world champion racer Max Verstappen, was loaned to Brockenhurst College by Red Bull race partner ExxonMobil. 

And it even came complete with trackside technical advisor Fiona McEwan, who explained how the car functions and how team members work together to achieve optimum performance at every race. 

British Science Week 2024 at Brock saw students joined by groups of Year 9, 10 and 11 pupils from Ballard School in New Milton and New Forest Academy on the Waterside. 

Bournemouth Echo: Science week at Brockenhurst College

Together they selected from a diverse itinerary of learning opportunities, set up across the college’s main campus in Brockenhurst to mark 30 years of the national learning initiative. 

Also on campus was the Local Skills Improvement Fund’s promotional vehicle, TECH:TRUCK, which is packed with leading edge technology including virtual reality headsets and AI robots. 

Aaron Marker, head of science at Ballard School, said: “What particularly stood out to me was the overwhelmingly positive response from the students. Their enthusiasm and participation were quite evident, reflecting a genuine excitement for science and exploration. 

“It was truly heartening to witness their eagerness to discuss the subject matter presented during the workshops, demonstrations, and discussions. I also feel that the supportive and encouraging atmosphere cultivated during the events was commendable.”

Brockenhurst College principal Helen Odhams said: “At Brock we are committed to inspiring the next generation of STEM innovators and leaders, and British Science Week has been an incredible platform for us to showcase the extraordinary breadth of opportunities available to students in these subjects."