STUDENTS from a school in Odiham are fundraising to enable them to compete at the F1 in Schools world finals in Singapore. 

F1 in Schools is a STEM challenge which originated in the UK and has grown to attract the world’s most talented nine to 19-year-olds from over 50 countries. The finals are due to take place in September.

Students from Robert May's School - Alastair, Amber, Charlotte and Harriet - have been competing for the past three years, achieving victory in many different fields of the competition.

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Lead teacher Phil Cain said: "I watched the team grow its strength through sheer determination and perseverance and become champions. We are very proud of them.”

Basingstoke Gazette:

Preparing for the world finals, Team Imperium, as the students are known, have redesigned their car for a new generation. Applying accuracy and advanced aerodynamic solutions, the cars are always 100 per cent compliant. They are made from foam and 3D-printed parts consisting of clean, decisive lines.

The team are looking to raise almost £10,000 to allow them the opportunity to compete at the world finals.

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Team manager Amber said: “All we want is a chance to prove ourselves in this year’s finals. We have already managed to secure half of the budget for the trip and are very grateful to all our sponsors and donors.

"We still have to acquire just under £10,000 to cover this project. If you would consider sponsorship, please email us on teamimperium@gmail.com or contact our fundraiser Jadranka Nicholls on 07999 166393.”

Anyone looking to support Team Imperium can find more information at gofund.me/2b3662ea.

In the past 10 years, the number of UK 18-year-olds from disadvantaged backgrounds accepted into full time undergraduate STEM courses increased by 79 per cent - from 7,265 in 2010 to 13,040 in 2020. This increase has been pushed by the F1 in Schools initiative.