30 Jul The Xispa team, from SEK-Catalunya, wins the national F1 in Schools STEM Challenge competition
The Xispa team from F1 in Schools, composed of 1st year students from the Diploma Programme at SEK International School Catalunya, has won the national F1 in Schools Spain competition in the Professional Class category. This result represents a year of work, dedication, and effort, culminating in the victory in the national category and ensuring their participation in the world final that will take place in the last week of November 2024.
During the weekend of the Spanish F1 Grand Prix, the finals of the F1 in Schools STEM Challenge were held in Spain, next to the Barcelona-Catalunya circuit. This annual competition challenges students from around the world to work as a team to develop the brand, identity, and unique design of a racing car. Teams present their projects in regional and national competitions, facing tough competition.
SEK-Catalunya students participated in three out of the four categories: Entry Class, Development Class, and Professional Class. In the Entry Class and Development Class categories, they obtained the first and second places, represented by the Lion and Celis teams. The Professional category, in which the Xispa team competed, is intended for experienced teams and requires the development of detailed business and engineering portfolios, defending their designs and logistical management.
The work, effort, and perseverance of the Xispa team were rewarded when they managed to win this national competition. This achievement is the result of talent, dedication, the ability to overcome challenges, and working together as a team. Now, the students will prepare to represent Spain in the F1 in Schools STEM Challenge world final, where they will compete against the best teams from around the globe in search of the title of world champions.
In addition, from 17 to 23 June, the team experienced unforgettable moments, such as an invitation to a special event at the Fernando Alonso Circuit Museum in Oviedo. This event was part of the STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) educational days organised by Aramco, one of the main sponsors of F1. These days, held on the eve of the Spanish Grand Prix at the Barcelona-Catalunya circuit, aimed to provide the next generation of STEM and motorsport talents with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in their careers.
During this event, students participated in a series of workshops focused on various areas such as design, engineering, mechanics, and media, led by experts, including Xavi Maroñas, a professor at SEK-Catalunya. In addition to technical training, attendees had the opportunity to meet motorsport stars such as Fernando Alonso, Pedro Martínez de la Rosa, Jessica Hawkins, and Melissa Jiménez. The day culminated with a karting masterclass taught by these drivers, where students were able to practice everything they had learned at the Fernando Alonso circuit.
