TfL challenge gives science students the opportunity to showcase their innovative ideas

Aspiring scientists and engineers from New City College are gearing up for an exciting opportunity as they participate in the Transport for London (TfL) Innovate competition.

The challenge, where students compete in teams of 4-6 people against other schools and colleges in London, gives young people the chance to work together on an innovation and design concept to win prizes, including iPads and invaluable work experience.

A Level Physics students at Havering Sixth Form campus were given a talk by the TfL Innovate project leader, Zahid. He introduced them to the competition, explaining that the teams have to come up with an innovative solution to a real-life TfL problem and contribute to a more efficient and sustainable transport system.

The finalists, who will pitch their innovation to a panel of experts in March 2024, will all be offered work experience with TfL where they can gain first hand insights into the world of transportation, planning, design and engineering.

Le Ngo, a Physics and Maths teacher at Havering Sixth Form, said he hoped students would push their boundaries and come up with ground-breaking ideas. He added: “They can apply their knowledge to develop real-world solutions to current transportation challenges. They will also gain valuable skills working with others, designing and presenting their ideas, and most importantly will have had exposure to a large organisation such as TfL to see that there is a wide range of fantastic careers they can strive for.”

Project Leader Zahid said: “TfL is hoping the challenge will ignite the enthusiasm and creativity of these young scientists and engineers. Their fresh perspectives are invaluable in helping us address transportation issues in the city and we look forward to seeing the innovative ideas that will emerge from our workforce of the future.”

The challenge complements the physics, science, maths and engineering curriculum and inspires students to develop confidence and analytical skills as well as team working, communication, time management, and creativity.

See our wide range of A Levels, BTECs and T Levels in science, technology, engineering and maths courses for 16-18 year old students. Apply today to New City College.