Five teams from our high schools made the trip to East Fortune racetrack on Wednesday 3 May to compete in the Greenpower Education Trust event.
Pupils from Berwickshire High School, Kelso High School, Hawick High School and two teams from Eyemouth High school travelled to the popular race track to compete against other secondary schools in the Greenpower organised event.
About Greenpower
Greenpower Education Trust is a UK based charity which aims to get young people enthusiastic about science and engineering by challenging them to design, build and race an electric car.
Supplying age appropriate Kit Cars, which can be built in school and raced at motorsport venues at organised events, the Greenpower challenge uses the excitement of motorsport to inspire young people to excel in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM).
Paul Watson, School Technician at Eyemouth high school first brought the Greenpower initiative to Eyemouth pupils six years ago, and following the project’s success, it has now grown within our schools, with a further three high schools all now taking part in the initiative.
Paul Watson, School Technician at Eyemouth high school
“This is a very proud moment for our school and our team here at Eyemouth. My vision started with one kit car and has now grown to include two cars, two racing teams and we are now engaging with feeder primaries as well helping other schools in the Borders.”
Further to the success of the work in school, Eyemouth High School has received a Greenpower Centre of Excellence Award, and Paul has been recognised as a Greenpower Ambassador.
Paul added
“Greenpower is not just about racing. It is about sustainability, engagement with STEM activities, team work and communication amongst our young people. We are honoured to have received this award and plan on continuing to educate the school and community about the benefits of Greenpower.
The teams competing on the day at East Fortune had a successful trip, with Eyemouth High School teams placed second and third in the F24 race, and Hawick High School receiving the Sustainability Award.
Councillor Leagh Douglas, Executive member for Education and Lifelong Learning
“We are hugely proud of Paul and his enthusiasm and dedication to this fantastic initiative. It is no surprise that he has been recognised as a Greenpower Ambassador and Eyemouth High School a Greenpower Centre of Excellence. The event today, has given the teams from SBC a terrific opportunity to showcase their skills and hard work from what they have achieved in school through the Greenpower project. Greenpower Education Trust is a shining example of the importance of diversity and inspiration when it comes to our young people, and encouraging them to engage in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM)."
A selection of images from the Greenpower event can be accessed from our Flickr page.