Students build solar cars in STEM challenge

KEEN young scientists built solar cars using 3D printers in a challenge at Clarkson Community High School recently.

Year 6 students from Clarkson, Merriwa and Somerly primary schools took part in the ninth annual Clarkson Challenge in early August.

Head of applied science and technology John Keyworth said the academic problem-solving program in STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) set problems for students to solve using scientific knowledge, technology skills and teamwork.

“The world is moving towards an energy crisis as fossil fuels begin to run out,” he said.

“Alternative fuels will need to be developed if we are to meet the transport needs of future generations whilst at the same time protecting the environment.

“Therefore, the idea behind this year’s Clarkson Challenge was to inspire our future scientists to solve this issue by producing an emissions-free solar powered car using sustainable materials and innovative techniques such as 3D printing.”

Two teams from each school set to work to create a car and ‘The Bolt Juniors’ from Somerly Primary School won the event, receiving a trophy and 10 Scitech tickets.

“Students carried out research and investigated the problem and how to solve it,” Mr Keyworth said.

“They then designed their cars on paper before creating their cars and testing them.

“At the end of the day, each team ran time trials on the pre-built track.”