The Learning Grid

The Greenpower Goblin kit car has been introducing Year 5 and 6 pupils to simple practical and theoretical engineering since the year 2000.

The project involves a team of pupils using their ingenuity in building a Goblin kit car, their creativity in designing and producing bodywork, and their team skills on race day when drivers and team members come together in an exciting project finale. Race days with driving skills tests and short sprints are throughout the year held at major motorsport venues such as the Goodwood Motor Circuit, which gives a real wow factor to the project.

Goblin projects can be started in a single school or in conjunction with a local ‘hub’ secondary school or organisation. Help with building the kit can often be found from a Science and Engineering Ambassador (see page 55 of the Guide).

Upon completion of the season’s events, kits are stripped down ready for next year’s team to re-assemble and go through the process again. Kits can be stripped down again and again, with all spare parts readily available from Greenpower.

The main chassis of the Goblin is of simple aluminium tube construction, where tubes are joined using plastic connectors and screws.

All other items are fitted to this, using simple methods for which only basic hand tools are required. Usually a team of 12-15 pupils would be split into groups for the assembly of the various sub-sections that build up into the complete vehicle.

A 36 page comprehensive instruction manual is included with the kit, containing exploded drawings of each sub assembly on the vehicle, and advice is always available direct from Greenpower.

As well as engineering skills learned during the build, the project can be widened to encompass subjects across the curriculum. From art in the creation of bodywork, to letter writing to potential team sponsors, the Goblin project really can make a difference to all aspects of school life.

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