York pupil honoured with David Barnard Recognition of Achievement Award at national STEM finals

Yorkshire’s young engineering talent was firmly in the spotlight at this year’s STEM Racing UK Primary National Finals, with a standout moment coming as David Barnard of Blue Dolphins, Hempland Primary School in York, received the prestigious Recognition of Achievement Award.

Held at the Magna Science Adventure Centre on 24th March, the national finals brought together more than 60 teams from across the UK for a high-energy day of design, racing and innovation. While the overall championship title went to a team from Wales, Yorkshire had plenty to celebrate – with individual excellence and team creativity shining through.

A proud moment for York

The David Barnard Recognition of Achievement Award celebrates dedication, progress and commitment throughout the STEM Racing journey – not just performance on the track. David’s success highlights the strength of STEM education in York schools and the enthusiasm of young people getting hands-on with engineering challenges.

Competing as part of the Blue Dolphins team from Hempland Primary School, David demonstrated the curiosity, teamwork and resilience that the award is designed to recognise. In a competition that tests everything from aerodynamics to branding and presentation, this honour reflects a well-rounded and impressive effort.

Yorkshire teams make their mark

Yorkshire was also represented in the Judges’ Choice Award, which went to Leopard Racing from Rishworth Preparatory School. This award recognises teams that impressed judges with their overall approach, creativity and teamwork.

Together, these achievements underline Yorkshire’s growing reputation for nurturing young STEM talent, with pupils competing confidently on a national stage.

More than just racing

STEM Racing challenges primary school pupils to design, build and race miniature Formula One-style cars made from paper, powered by compressed air over a 20-metre track. But success goes far beyond speed.

Teams must:

• Develop a full engineering design process

• Build a brand and identity

• Produce a professional project portfolio

• Present their ideas to expert judges

It’s a unique blend of science, technology, engineering and maths, combined with creativity and communication skills.

A national stage for future innovators

This year’s finals followed a record-breaking season, with over 6,000 students competing in regional rounds to earn their place at the national event. The competition continues to grow as one of the most engaging ways to introduce young people to STEM careers.

For Yorkshire, the success of students like David Barnard is a clear sign of what’s to come – a new generation of innovators already making their mark.