The best of the best rocket and model aeroplane makers will battle it out for state glory in an innovative schools competition in Wollongong on Friday.
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The Aeronautical Velocity Challenge state finals at the University of Wollongong features 42 teams from government, catholic and independent primary and high schools across the state.
Competitors are tasked with designing, building and launching bottle rockets and propeller powered planes.
The brainchild of Bulli High School TAS head teacher Steve Delaney and teachers Dean Hannah from Marsden High School and Brian Barter from Toongabbie Christian School, the competition is a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) initiative aimed at encouraging students to study those subjects.
Mr Delaney said the competition was becoming so popular, it could become a national event in 2018.
‘’It’s a great program because it is fun for students and is a legitimate learning experience as well,’’ he said.
Now in its fourth year, the competition will this year see senior students explore the use of STEM technologies including 3D printing, laser and vinyl cutting to develop components for their engineered designs.
‘’2017 also sees the inaugural pilot program of the Drone Division of the competition and will be on display with students piloting the program on the day.’’
