STUDENTS at two Keighley-area schools are gearing up for a kit car challenge.

Oastlers Keighley and Parkside, at Cullingworth, are among nine secondary schools across the Bradford district taking part in West Yorkshire's first Formula 24 Challenge.

Basic parts for single-seater electric kit cars, including frames and components to produce battery-powered engines, have been delivered to the schools.

Now pupils have the task of designing and constructing their vehicles, with an emphasis on using eco-friendly materials.

The young people will receive expert technical coaching and master classes to help them.

And once the kit cars are complete, it's planned to hold a Formula 24 Grand Prix in Bradford city centre.

The initiative is being spearheaded by the Greenpower Education Trust, with support from Bradford College.

Robert Fairbairn, head of centre at Oastlers Keighley, says: "We found out about the chance to build and race an electric car through conversations with colleagues at Bradford College.

"We see this as a great opportunity to motivate our young people to participate, opening their eyes to the possibilities across a range of subjects in school.

"Building and racing the car will show them that learning can be fun and at the same time, inspiring. It will also open up exciting conversations with local employers – our aim is to encourage them to take an active part in the design and building of the car."

Sarah Towan, vice-principal for recruitment and communications at Bradford College, says: "We are very excited to support the challenge.

"This is an exhilarating project for local students, giving them the opportunity to explore design principles and improve planning, creativity, teamwork and problem-solving skills.

"It’s vital that we engage more young people in STEM subjects to help address future skills gaps and improve diversity across critical industries in the UK."

Greenpower Education Trust's work challenging young people to design, build and race electric cars sees more than 10,000 students take part each year.

Vaughan Curnow, the trust's community and education development manager, says: "We want to showcase STEM careers to a diverse range of students.

"The Formula 24 Challenge builds confidence and self-esteem, as well as teaching transferable skills in marketing, fundraising, design and more. Thanks go to Bradford College for being so supportive in the roll-out of the project."

Organisers would like to hear from any businesses interested in getting involved. Email S.Faulkner@bradfordcollege.ac.uk or call 07776 956239 for more details.