Teenagers demonstrate flair and originality solving engineering design problems

James Crawshaw and Max Fuller, both from Latymer Upper School, have been awarded Arkwright Scholarships.

Jim Clark, Head of Design and Technology at Latymer said: “This is well deserved recognition for two outstanding students – well done James and Max!”

Max, said,“I am delighted. Making things has always been a passion of mine. I hope to have a career in engineering and this award is a real boost to me.”

The two teenagers were selected after successfully passing the Arkwright Aptitude Paper, in which they demonstrated flair and originality in solving engineering design problems. They also presented their GCSE work to a panel of interviewers earlier in March and April.

James Crawshaw, based his Design and Technology (DT) Project around solving a small storage problem. His solution used clear acrylic and was designed and made via a computer utilising a laser cutter.

Max Fuller’s Project investigated what to do with shoes in-doors. His solution was fairly traditional and economic in its realisation. He made use of plywood and knock down fittings, making a unit with which the shoes could be stored neatly and tidily.

The selection process for the Arkwright scholarship culminated in an interview for shortlisted candidates at Imperial College, London. The candidates completed a team exercise which gave them a taste of the challenge and excitement of engineering related careers.

Scholarships are sponsored by industry and charitable trusts and will be formally presented at a ceremony hosted by The Institute of Engineering and Technology, Savoy Place, London in August. During the day, the scholars will have an opportunity to meet their sponsors and other scholars.

The Arkwright Trust was founded in 1990 and supports young people during their A-level years by awarding £250 a year to assist with the purchase of material and books. The boys will also carry the status of ‘Arkwright Scholar’ into university. In addition, Latymer’s Design and Technology department will receive £225 per year, specifically to support A Level project wrok, for the next two years.

June 8, 2007