Cornish School Children Create Full-Scale Formula 1 Car from Cardboard

Pupils at Marhamchurch C of E Academy have turned a burst of racing excitement into a full-scale build, creating a life-size cardboard Formula 1 car ahead of Sunday’s F1 showdown.

Building an F1 Car from Scratch

Children in years 2 and 3 worked with artist Nick Corston from charity STEAM Co. to design and build the car. Using donated cardboard from a local builders’ merchant, the pupils learned how to measure, cut and construct the full-scale model as a team.

The build tied directly into the school’s hands-on approach to science, giving pupils experience in problem solving, scientific enquiry and the engineering process.

When the car was complete, the children filmed a green-screen video to show off their creation and send good luck wishes to Bristol-born F1 driver Lando Norris.

STEAM Co.’s Cornwall Connection

Two years ago, McLaren F1 featured STEAM Co. on their cars at the British Grand Prix, highlighting the charity’s mission to inspire young people across Cornwall. The charity continues to promote STEAM skills as vital for the UK’s future economy and is currently fundraising for #OurCreativityRevolution, providing free, hands-on learning days to schools.

What They Said

Headteacher Deirdre Petersen said:
“Projects like this bring our curriculum to life. The children were buzzing as they planned, built, and tested their cardboard F1 car. Huge thanks to Nick Corston for guiding them and making STEAM learning so hands-on and fun.”

Founder of STEAM Co., Nick Corston FRSA, said:
“Let’s get our kids off their screens this Christmas and on the tools. Let’s give them what they need to bring their dreams to life, in cardboard or anything else. Because a box isn’t just for Christmas.”

Learning Academy Partnership CEO Tracey Cleverly said:
“Projects like this put STEAM subjects into action. The energy in the school was palpable, and it’s wonderful to see young people exploring problem-solving, creativity, and engineering right here in Cornwall, inspired by a West Country hero.”