North London Collegiate School (NLCS) (Singapore) is excited to be hosting the F1 in Schools Singapore Nationals 2024 this November. This is the first year that the school is both a participant and host. We hear from students and the school’s Head of Design and Engineering about their preparations for this highlight in the school’s STEM education calendar.
What is F1 in Schools?
F1 in Schools is an international STEM (science, technology, engineering, maths) programme where students design, build and race miniature Formula 1-style cars.
This hands-on challenge gives students a taste of real-world engineering as they work in teams to design and make the fastest vehicle. Students take on specific roles within their teams and oversee every aspect of the car’s development from initial concept to final prototype. As they bring their models to life, they hone essential skills along the way.
The F1 in Schools Singapore Nationals is a highlight in the STEM education calendar for NLCS (Singapore). Young innovators from across Singapore will come together to showcase their skills in this prestigious global competition. Besides technical aspects, the competition also covers project management, branding, marketing and entrepreneurship, setting the students up for future success in professional industries.
NLCS (Singapore) is looking forward to hosting this year’s event. Seven schools from across Singapore will field a total of 17 teams. The winning team will head to the next World Finals, going up against 60 to 70 teams from across the globe.
Hear from some NLCS (Singapore) students…
“I now understand more about the business aspect that’s necessary to compete in F1. It’s been very interesting to look at the dynamics of these teams from the perspective of F1 in Schools. The exhilaration that I felt when watching our car launch along the track was incredible! We learnt a lot from this experience to influence our current designs and approaches.” – Freddie, Grade 11
“It has given me the opportunity to understand the significance of specialisation in teamwork, as well as understand how the engineering of F1 cars work.” – Sydney, Grade 11
“Being the graphic designer of my team allows me to further develop my digital art skills. They can be applied through digital drawing, creating promotional videos for team identity, designing graphics for the team portfolio, and more. My favourite part is working with my team and contacting different companies for sponsorship.” – Denise, Grade 9
“I’ve really enjoyed connecting the skills I learned in this CCA with arts and technology. I now fully understand how much work goes into organising and running my team.” – Evie, Grade 9
A word from Wilson Law, Head of Design and Engineering at NLCS (Singapore)
“F1 in Schools offers a unique opportunity for students to apply classroom knowledge of STEM education to real-world challenges. The interdisciplinary nature of the competition – blending Design, Physics and Engineering – sparks innovation and critical thinking. The difficulties they face in designing and manufacturing their cars mirror those encountered in professional industries. At the same time, the project fosters teamwork and entrepreneurial skills.
We have 17 students across three teams preparing for the Singapore Nationals. To add to the excitement, we’ve taken some of them behind the scenes to the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix Paddock Tour. It was a rare opportunity to experience the Formula 1 up close.
We’re thrilled to launch a second racing cohort later this year, that will be open to students from various year groups.”
North London Collegiate School (Singapore) is at 130 Depot Road.
6989 3000 | nlcssingapore.sg
This article about F1 in Schools at NLCS (Singapore) and STEM education first appeared in the November 2024 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe so you never miss a copy! To make the most of living in Singapore, read our latest City Guide here for free! Here are great outdoor and indoor playgrounds in Singapore and the best things to do in Singapore with the family.
