Young people from across the south have been building and racing different types of hovercraft in the name of science and technology.
The group of 15 young people aged 11-16 from the Portsmouth region, were taking part in a free session organised by the University of Portsmouth Up for It club, in a bid to get teenagers thinking about their futures.
While it may look like fun, it’s a serious business, the participants had to flex their scientific brains, as well as develop their creative and technical skills.
Dr Nick Savage, principal lecturer from the School of Engineering, said, “Developing creative solutions to practical challenges is the fundamental work of an engineer and it is great for these young people to have a glimpse at this by completing workshops like designing, constructing and racing hovercraft.”
The students had a trip on the Isle of Wight hovercraft
After designing and building working hovercraft, the participants went head to head in a ‘Hovercraft Grand Prix’ time trial to find the fastest hovercraft with a big race-off for fun at the end.
In the afternoon the group got the opportunity to experience the real thing – with a trip on the Isle of Wight Hovercraft.
UP for It is a free membership scheme run by the University of Portsmouth for all 11 to 16 year olds in the Portsmouth area. It aims to inform young people about Further and Higher Education in a fun and informative manner to increase awareness of a variety of course and career opportunities. This year the programme celebrated its 10th anniversary and since it began has seen over 12000 members join.
Anyone aged 11-16 can join the club and will receive a membership card offering discounts at shops and attractions, free magazines and opportunities to participate in future workshops. To join visit www.upforitclub.org.uk
