We brought the paddock to the pit lane and let the next generation of racers and engineers get their hands dirty, and they absolutely loved it.
Our recent Drive & Thrive Junior Mechanics Workshop was an unforgettable day packed with learning, laughter and a whole lot of oily hands! Designed especially for young motorsport enthusiasts, this one-day event gave kids a taste of what it’s really like to be part of a racing team, behind the wheel and under the bonnet.
Real Racing Meets Real Science
STEM in motorsport isn’t just a buzzword, it’s a brilliant way to introduce Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics in an exciting, hands-on format. At TeamKarting Rochdale, we know that some of the most curious minds are hidden behind racing helmets. That’s why our workshop is designed to bring theory to life.
It wasn’t just about watching. Every child got involved in real mechanical tasks:
- Learned the fundamentals of how a petrol engine works
- Stripped and explored a carburettor
- Worked with clutches and discovered the magic of engine timing
- Fitted, removed and tracked tyres like mini-mechanics
- Put their new knowledge to use on our racing simulators
- And of course, rounded off the day with some real track time!
The balance between science and sport kept the energy high and the learning memorable. Children weren’t just ‘taught’ – they discovered.
STEM Learning in Action
By using real motorsport examples, we make STEM tangible. Kids explored physics through acceleration and braking, saw engineering in motion as they dismantled and rebuilt components, and experienced mathematical thinking through setup changes and timing analysis.
For children who struggle to engage with STEM in a classroom, this kind of environment is transformational. We see it time and again – the spark that happens when a young person realises they understand how something works just by getting hands-on.
This is what STEM in motorsport is all about. It isn’t about whiteboards and textbooks, it’s about torque wrenches, kart wheels and spark plugs. It’s learning by doing, and it’s incredibly powerful.
What They Said
“I learnt that a carb isn’t just in bread” – Spencer, age 10
“My son said it was the best day ever – when is the next one?” – Parent
“Spencer had such a good day! Thank you to the team at TeamKarting for arranging such a fun-filled day”
“Alfie absolutely loved this, thank you for teaching and having him 🧡”
The feedback speaks volumes. This wasn’t just a karting day – it was a unique, skills-based motorsport experience that gave our junior drivers a whole new perspective on racing.
From Workshop to Race Track – The Junior Academy Link
This workshop is also the perfect stepping stone into our Junior Karting Academy, where kids aged 8–14 build their confidence and race craft through structured coaching and track time. Where the workshop focused on mechanical STEM skills, the Academy brings performance and driver development into focus.
Together, they form a well-rounded pathway – for budding drivers and budding engineers alike. Whether your child dreams of becoming the next British karting champion or the one building the engine that wins the race, we’ve got the tools and team to support them.
Why It Matters
We believe motorsport should be accessible, inclusive and educational. By embedding STEM in motorsport activities, we open doors for young people to explore potential careers, passions and pathways they may never have considered.
The Drive & Thrive Workshop is more than a fun day out. It’s a chance for young people to unlock skills, build confidence and feel part of something real. It’s practical, purposeful and packed with potential.
Get Involved in STEM in Motorsport
Want your child to take part in our next Junior Mechanics day? Or maybe join our Junior Academy to experience motorsport from both sides of the pit wall? Get in touch and give them the opportunity to thrive.
📞 01706 310999
Let’s get under the bonnet and into the action – see you next time!
