Olney Middle School inspires future STEM careers with once-in-a-lifetime Williams Racing Formula 1 experience

This half term, Olney Middle School provided an unforgettable enrichment opportunity for 80 pupils, taking them on a two-hour coach journey to the Williams Racing Formula 1 headquarters in Oxfordshire for a full-day STEM experience.

The visit was designed to inspire pupils with a strong interest in science, technology, engineering and maths, while ensuring equity of access. A number of the pupils attending were eligible for Pupil Premium, and the trip was fully funded so that no families were required to contribute. Every child who entered the STEM competition at school was given the opportunity to attend, reinforcing Olney Middle School’s commitment to fairness, aspiration and inclusion.

During the visit, pupils explored the Williams Racing Museum, where they saw an impressive collection of Formula 1 cars spanning the team’s history. They had the rare opportunity to hold genuine components from a Formula 1 car, including a steering wheel and helmet, and to compare the size and weight of individual car parts. Pupils also took part in a virtual racing simulation, giving them a hands-on insight into the precision, skill and technology behind elite motorsport.

In the afternoon, pupils worked collaboratively in teams to design and build a nosebox, applying engineering and problem-solving skills in a practical challenge. The session concluded with prizes being awarded, celebrating teamwork, creativity and resilience. Every pupil left the experience with a Williams Racing goodie bag, marking the day as a truly memorable occasion.

The visit was organised by Heather Lamble, Deputy Headteacher at Olney Middle School, as part of the school’s wider personal development offer. Reflecting on the experience, she said:

“This visit gave our pupils a rare opportunity to immerse themselves in real-world STEM. For many of our children, particularly those eligible for Pupil Premium, experiences like this can be transformational. Seeing cutting-edge engineering up close helps them understand that these careers are not out of reach – they are possible. Our aim was to raise aspirations, spark curiosity, and show every child that their future can be ambitious.”

By removing financial barriers, the school was able to close opportunity gaps and ensure that pupils who might not otherwise access such experiences could fully participate. Seeing world-class engineering and innovation in real life helped make future pathways feel tangible and possible.

Headteacher Richard Bosworth reflected on the impact of the visit, saying:

“At Olney Middle School, we believe in holding up a mirror to ourselves while opening a window to the wider world. Experiences like this help pupils see what is possible, believe in their own potential, and strive for excellence.”

The Williams Racing STEM trip builds on Olney Middle School’s already extensive personal development provision and demonstrates IFtL’s ongoing commitment to providing ambitious, inclusive opportunities that inspire every child to succeed.

About Olney Middle School:

Olney Middle School is a Junior (Year 3-6) school in the heart of Olney. It is part of Inspiring Futures through Learning, a multi-academy trust comprising one all-through school and 20 other schools in Corby and Milton Keynes.