PTC and Hornby Hobbies Continue Education Drive in 2012

Scalextric4Schools competition uses real-life challenges and real-life tools to help build interest in science, engineering and maths

Farnborough, UK -  November 15, 2011 - PTC (Nada: PMTC), The Product Development Company®, today announced continued support of the Scalextric4schools Design / Make / Race Challenge during 2012.  The competition aims to inspire young students to consider design and engineering in higher education and as careers.  Over 500 schools participate annually, many incorporating the competition into curriculums.

PTC sponsors the challenge along with its UK partner, Root Solutions, and and Hornby Hobbies Limited, long-time user of PTC solutions for the design, manufacture and documentation of its world-renowned Scalextric, Hornby, Corgi and Airfix branded products.

“The initial idea of this challenge was to engage with students and help them learn about design and engineering by building and racing their very own Scalextric cars,” said Paul Chandler, marketing manager at Scalextric.  “Each year the students surpass expectations showing genuine talent as well as enthusiasm and innovation in the development of their cars.”

The 2012 challenge will be showcased at The Design & Technology with ICT Education Show at the NEC from 17-19 November 2011 (booth E52).  Teachers will be able to view the F3 circuit and 40 metre Bloodhound SSC track and students are invited to talk to experts and test their designs by “racing what they bring.”

Children educated at home or individuals and schools without their own CNC equipment can have their designs manufactured at one of the four schools who support the challenge.  And, for those schools and individuals who want to take part, the 2012 competition will be held late in June at RAF Museum, Cosford, where teams will compete for the coveted Scalextric4Schools Champion trophy.

“Launched 4 years ago, the Scalextric4schools program has grown in both  the number of schools participating and the breadth of knowledge and enthusiasm that the students bring,” said Tim Brotherhood, curriculum development manager for PTC. “We are pleased to be able to offer the students a great introduction to engineering, using a brand they can relate to.  And the fun factor is a nice enticement to get students to look at engineering or design as a future career,” concluded Brotherhood.

All the resources needed to get started are available on the challenge Website at:
www.scalextric4schools.org