Developing STEM skills at Baysgarth school through VPI

In 2024, VPI sponsored Baysgarth School in Lincolnshire to ignite a passion for STEM subjects amongst school children by aiming to construct the world’s first school racing test track made entirely from recycled plastic.

To bring this vision to life, students actively engaged with local businesses, pitching for funding to support the racetrack’s development. Throughout the racing season, they deepened their STEM expertise by designing and building racing cars.

Since the project’s inception, significant progress has been made. Most of the required funding has been secured, and the school is now working closely with the local authority, North Lincolnshire, and engineering partners to finalise the planning application. Students have played a central role in developing the project, not only in fundraising and presenting to companies, but also in undertaking technical tasks such as conducting a topographical survey of the proposed site. They are currently in the final planning consent stages.

Once operational, the test track will be open to the wider community, hosting small group races and Grand Prix-style events. This initiative will provide ongoing opportunities for students and local residents to develop valuable skills, foster community engagement and promote sustainable practices.