Oakham Scholar selected for Young Engineer for Britain Mentoring Programme

Published by Oakham School on Monday 23rd of November 2015

A pupil from Oakham School is one of just 17 students in the country to have qualified for the prestigious Young Engineer for Britain Mentoring Programme. Harry Smith, who already holds a much-coveted Arkwright Scholarship, submitted his unique idea for a wall-climbing painting robot. His design idea has the ability to climb walls, using suction, and paint them. The robot also cleverly dries the paint as it is applied and cleans itself. Harry’s qualification also means that he has been automatically entered into the UK Young Engineer of the Year competition. "Harry is a very talented pupil and we are very proud of his latest achievement," said Tim Weston, Head of Design Technology. "We hope he is successful at achieving his place at the finals in the US next year." The first stage of the mentoring programme has seen Harry attend a Mentor Day at the National Physical Laboratory. He had the opportunity to learn how to market a product, how to design display materials and stands, how to follow a scientific method, and of course, how to deliver the all-important elevator pitch. Students also had the opportunity to apply for sponsorship by pitching their idea to three panels and be twinned with a company, who could provide guidance and financial backing to develop the product. Harry’s preparation paid off, and he secured a mentor from the National Physical Laboratory. His project was also dubbed ‘highly likely’ to represent Great Britain at the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair in Phoenix, Arizona in May, which is the world’s largest international pre-university science competition.