Woodfarm engineers are on their way

Recruitment firm the Brightwork Group is sponsoring the team for the 4x4 in Schools Technology Challenge.

The competition involves four to six team members working to build a radio-controlled four wheel drive vehicle to run on a specially designed test track — and leading the way for Woodfarm are Sean Gaffney (16) and Dr Simon Hadfield, of the science faculty.

The team — made up of five boys and one girl — won best rookie in the Scottish regional heats in 2014 and are now on their way to the national finals in Warwickshire in April, as well as crossing their fingers for a place in the international finals.

Fifth year Sean, from Thornliebank, said: “Last year we were rookies, but this year we are competing in the professional class, so we are having to take things to a whole new level.

“Engineers are at the root of the achievements of the modern world and challenges such as this will inspire more schoolchildren to view engineering as a worthwhile, productive career.”

Shan Saba, director at Brightwork, added: “We are delighted to be able to support the Woodfarm team in this year’s challenge. It’s an excellent way of developing the engineering skills which will be so important to the country’s future.”