After Team DFM (Dynamic Flying Machine)’s success in the Southwest regional ‘Flying Start Challenge’ finals in March, our budding engineers were excited to launch themselves and their prebuilt gliders into the Grand Final.
Read all about the Regional Final here to be reminded of their overall success.
Held on Friday 17th May 2024, Year 9 pupils Willis, George, Julia and Bettie represented Clifton High School at Aerospace Bristol for a day of indulging in the dynamics of flight. The expectations of each team were to design, create and demonstrate the following engineering mechanisms:
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Wind Powered Car – Team DFM’s design performed well, travelling an impressive 6 meters+ distance, achieving second place. Thanks to Willis who undertook the role of presenting and positioning the car.
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Fly-Off – Team DFM’s glider was not on flying form during this final heat of the competition. Whilst we anticipated a distance of 15-20 meters, it swerved to hit the tail of Concorde, scoring a slightly disappointing, yet respectable 13.5-meter distance. Thanks to George who took responsibility for throwing.
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Earthquake Tower – A collective effort saw Team DFM creating the second tallest tower, withstanding the earthquake. Thanks to Willis for leading the structuring of the tower for the test.
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Catapult – Led by Bettie and Julia, Team DFM developed a great design for the framework of the catapult. It was presented by George to a crowded audience, as he explained the physics principles behind the concept of design. Each team had three attempts to launch a Starburst sweet across the room – Team DFM reached approximately 9 meters, claiming second place.
We are extremely proud of Team DFM’s achievement in reaching the Grand Final of Flying Start with the competition only elevating their learning journey through an outstanding performance. All members proved to be fantastic role models for Clifton High School, representing our values and working together in their overall success. Whilst we left empty handed on this occasion, the opportunity proves invaluable in their understanding of physics and is an integral part of their future studies and potential engineering careers.
Congratulations Team DFM and may we offer our gratitude to Mr Paul Griffin, Head of Physics, for his continued support both in the classroom and throughout the Flying Start Challenge. We would also like to thank Ms Lisa Atkins for her encouragement and guidance throughout the competition stages.
