Harper Adams Residential – The First Engineering Experience
Before beginning the Harper Adams Challenge, all new Year 9 learners at The JCB Academy start their engineering journey with a one-week residential trip to Harper Adams University in Shropshire. Taking place in their first week at the academy, this immersive experience provides learners with an introduction to key engineering principles while also helping them to develop essential teamwork and problem-solving skills.
The Harper Adams Residential Trip blends academic lessons with practical, hands-on engineering sessions, ensuring that learners build strong foundational knowledge before tackling the challenge later in the year.
Engineering Lessons at Harper Adams
During the residential, learners take part in three core engineering sessions, delivered alongside Harper Adams lecturers:
- Traction and Power – Learners experiment with front-wheel, rear-wheel, and four-wheel drive model vehicles, testing their traction on different surfaces, including AstroTurf, smooth concrete, loose sand, and rough concrete. They measure drawbar pull and analyse performance on a 30-degree incline.
- Suspension and Steering – In Harper Adams’ soil barn, learners explore different suspension types and their applications. They conduct turning-circle tests with small vehicles, learning how steering configurations impact manoeuvrability.
- Chassis Design & Gear Ratios – Using paper straws and a glue gun, learners design and construct load-bearing structures capable of withstanding up to 3kg. They also engage in practical gear ratio experiments, creating working gear systems and analysing rotations.
In addition to these engineering-focused sessions, learners also participate in English, mathematics, and science lessons, developing well-rounded skills that will support their future studies.
Outdoor and Team-Building Activities
The Harper Adams Residential is not just about engineering—it’s also about building friendships and confidence. Learners take part in:
- Archery
- Climbing Wall
- Segway Challenges
- Team-Building Exercises
By the end of the week, learners return to The JCB Academy with new technical skills, stronger teamwork abilities, and a greater sense of independence, fully prepared to take on the Harper Adams Challenge later in the year.
