It’s not every day that you get to play video games at school…
On 26 September at Berkhamsted, pupils were visited by three Williams Formula 1 simulators and an assortment of PS5 devices. These allowed pupils to take a spin on Formula 1 tracks and try out what it’s like to drive an F1 car.
This isn’t just gaming in the lunch hall- Esports can be designed to build skills and develop character. It also allows for those who don’t engage in traditional sports to find a new space to train key tactical, analytical and coordination skills. With enough interest in the day, the possibility of clubs, house competitions, tournaments or even regional representation can also be considered.
With three simulators across various school sites, teachers and pupils alike were queuing up eagerly to race.
The experience of driving in an F1 simulator is like no other. With 30kg of weight behind the pedals and a seated position that almost mirrors lying down, racing requires rapid reaction times, constant track analysis and adaptability when things go wrong. Berkhamsted pupils had to approach this challenge with focus and perseverance.
One pupil commented that it was “definitely a new thing for me,” and that he “thought it was pretty hard, but I gave it my best shot.”
Another said that it took a couple laps to “find my feet,” but once he had, it was an “amazing experience.”
The simulator was certainly hard work, but our pupils’ enthusiasm and commitment to learning and improving made for some very competitive flying laps. Leader boards were updated throughout the day with great enthusiasm, as pupils battled their peers (and teachers) alike. Our fastest times were:
Sixth, Baku Circuit: Zac W, 1:40:92
Boys, Marina Bay Circuit: Orson M, 1:32:01
Girls, Silverstone Circuit: Darcey W, 1:34:00
Well done to everyone who gave the simulator a try and thank you to Mrs Hughes for organising!