As a big advocate for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths (STEM) education, I was excited to volunteer as a judge for the F1 in Schools 2023 National Finals. This annual competition is a fantastic platform for students to learn about STEM in a creative and exciting way.
My role as a judge was to evaluate the marketing booths and team interviews, a task that I've been privileged to undertake since 2015. The competition requires participants to design and build miniature Formula One cars, which are then raced on a specially-designed track. But the competition is not just about speed - it's also about design, innovation, and marketing.
What impressed me the most was the level of creativity and technical skill displayed by the students. Each team had to showcase their car and marketing materials, explaining their design process and marketing strategy. The level of detail that went into each car was astounding, and the marketing materials were equally impressive.
It was amazing to see how much the competition has grown since I first got involved. More and more students are now participating in F1 in Schools, and the quality of the entries keeps getting better each year. The competition has become a real showcase for the talent and creativity of young people in STEM.
As a judge, it was a challenging task to evaluate each team's work and determine the winners. But it was also a great opportunity to engage with the students and learn more about their experiences. It was inspiring to see their passion for STEM and their dedication to the competition.
In conclusion, my experience as a judge for the F1 in Schools National Finals was truly unforgettable. It was amazing to see the level of talent and creativity that young people bring to STEM learning. I encourage everyone to get involved with initiatives like F1 in Schools and support the next generation of STEM innovators.