Year 5 pupils at Tameside Primary Academy had the unique opportunity to see science in action with a visit from professional racing car driver Clive Austin. Pupils explored the car’s components and learned how forces such as friction, grip and air resistance affect speed and control, gaining a clear understanding of how scientific principals are applied in real-world engineering.
Building on this experience, pupils designed and constructed their own racing cars. Using K’NEX and elastic bands, they experimented with wheel size, vehicle shape and propulsion methods. Each group tested and refined their designs, discovering how small adjustments could improve performance. These activities and discussions encouraged pupils to think critically about energy, forces and problem solving.
The session concluded with a series of races that showcased pupils’ creativity, resilience and teamwork. Inventive designs produced surprising results, offering a memorable way to apply classroom learning in a practical, hands-on context.
Cem Yalluri, Associate Principal at Tameside Primary Academy, said: “What was wonderful to see was the excitement on the children’s faces as they connected ideas from the classroom to something real and thrilling.
“They weren’t just building cars. They were experimenting, problem-solving and learning to adapt when things didn’t go as planned. Experiences like this give pupils confidence to take risks, think creatively and see themselves as capable scientists and engineers.”
The project was part of a Bloodhound-themed learning programme, inspired by the British supersonic car and its connection to the land speed record. The theme was delivered through the Academy’s Excite, Explore, Excel (E3L) curriculum. This curriculum runs across Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust primary schools and is designed to help pupils make meaningful connections across subjects and see how classroom learning applies beyond school.
Applications for Reception places at Tameside Primary Academy starting September 2026 are now open for residents in Sandwell and Dudley. Parents should apply for their place via their local authority. The deadline for reception applications is Thursday 15 January 2026.
To learn more about Tameside Primary Academy, call 0121 556 0340, email admin@tpa.shirelandcat.net or visit the school website.
