Three of Fyling Hall Junior School‘s pupils summarise what they learnt from Mrs Sheveling’s visit to the school. Mrs Sheveling started her career in 1996, at that time as the only female engineer in Formula 1, and we were absolutely delighted that she was able to share her experience with our pupils. It is always good to learn from outside speakers and this was a fantastic opportunity to learn more about design and engineering. 

Last week Mrs Sheveling came into school to talk to us about her career in Formula 1. We learnt a lot and had an amazing time!

Her journey started in 1996, when she was the only woman engineer in F1. She designed the drivers’ seats and made a huge difference to the safety of Formula 1. She told us all about fireproofing and the materials that are used in making the seats, and we were allowed to sit in a seat designed for Jan Magnussen, a Formula 1 driver!

To make a F1 seat, first you need to scan the F1 driver by placing them in a sack of beans and moulding their body. When you’ve done this, you scan the mould and create a seat out of carbon fibre and Kevlar. This mix is light and can be taken out of the car very easily.

Mrs Sheveling travelled to the races with the drivers to make any alterations that were needed to their seats. She wasn’t allowed to make really big changes but sometimes had to change the seat if the driver had put on weight.

We would like to thank Mrs Sheveling for coming in and inspiring us. There were some very excited pupils in the class!

By Albie, Arthur and Harry