Year 10 STEAM students embarked on an exciting journey of engineering and innovation, working as teams to design, analyse, test, manufacture, and race small-scale Formula 1 cars. Powered by CO2 canisters, these cars raced down a 10m track, reaching speeds of up to 80km/h. Reflecting the structure of a professional Formula One team, students navigated a rigorous process that integrated engineering and manufacturing disciplines. In one team, the challenge extended further: designing and creating a novelty car. This unique task encouraged them to showcase the team鈥檚 creativity and identity, with modifications driven by artistic expression rather than performance.
Adding real-world context to the project, each team was paired with a mentor from university or industry, all actively involved in the prestigious Formula SAE competition. Formula SAE challenges university students worldwide to design and manufacture electric autonomous racing cars, a highly regarded achievement in many industry sectors. Mentors from organisations such as Swinburne University of Technology, Ford Motor Company, Hume City Council and Boeing Aerostructures Australia guided Siena students, meeting regularly online. Notably, two mentors were also Siena parents, adding a special connection to the program.
On Wednesday, 13 November, students proudly showcased their completed projects to their mentors and teacher. Wearing custom-designed team t-shirts, they presented their learning journeys, demonstrating how expert guidance and theoretical knowledge shaped their decisions. The event culminated in the much-anticipated race. Team 'Fast and Fierce' claimed the title for the fastest car, completing the 9.7m track in an impressive 0.638 seconds. Their achievement is now etched on the STEAM perpetual trophy. Congratulations to all students for their enthusiasm, creativity, and commitment to hands-on, interdisciplinary learning. A remarkable effort all around!
