Five Hull schools chosen to take part in Greenpower enterprising schem

Five primary schools in Hull are to be supported by young entrepreneurs Engaging Education and the John Cracknell Youth Enterprise Bank to get involved with the STEM initiative, a programme run by the Greenpower Trust who work closely with Siemens. 

The project is aimed at promoting sustainable engineering to young people by teaching them how to design, build and race electric kit cars in school teams, whilst exploring the science, technology, engineering and maths skills required to develop their teamwork and leadership qualities, forming part of the Big 13 Enterprise Skills. 

Kevin Wilkinson, Financial Controller at Siemens, said: 

"I was really pleased with the enthusiasm and quality of submissions by all the schools entering the Greenpower Trust competition. The understanding of the Big 13 Enterprise Skills and the impact a Greenpower project can have on pupils was encouraging to see, therefore it was very difficult to choose a winner. 

"However, given what I've seen in the submissions, I'm sure all the schools involved in Greenpower projects will gain a lot from the experience." 

Councillor Martin Mancey, Portfolio Holder for Energy City, said: 

"The council is pleased to be working with Siemens, Engaging Education and the John Cracknell Youth Enterprise Bank on this great project with Greenpower Trust, in order to ensure that young people across the city can find out more about enterprising and STEM. 

"I look forward to seeing the cars once they are built by the schools." 

All primary schools across the city took part in the Big 13 Enterprise Skills competition, and the winners include Foredyke Primary (won £500), Cavendish Primary (won £200), Francis Askew Primary (won £200). Gillshill and Biggin Hill Primary School already received £500 towards an IET Formula Goblin Car because of their excellent record of engaging with pupils in the enterprise agenda. 

Sarah Elsom, Enterprise Leader, Foredyke Primary School, said: 

"The children in year five and six are already really excited about this opportunity and want to organize a weekly café for the pupils and parents to raise money. They are also drafting letters to send to local businesses to gain sponsorship and raise the profile of the school." 

Ross Bennett, Managing Director of Engaging Education, said: 

"We are delighted to be sponsoring this great initiative with the John Cracknell Youth Enterprise Bank and Hull City Council, there was some fantastic entries from schools associated with the Be Enterprising Group of teachers and tutors and we are looking forward to working with the young people at the schools."