TEENAGERS at a Greenock school are in the driving seat as they build a racing car which will be put to the test at a major competition.

The ‘Inver Racers’, made up of 12 pupils from Inverclyde Academy, are on track for success as they work round the clock to build the Formula 24 car which they will race against other young teams from across Scotland.

Colin McLaughlin, a lecturer at West College Scotland, and Paula Leca, from Developing the Young Workforce, say the project aims to make young people realise their potential.

Colin said: “The hope is that the young people will get apprenticeships out of this and can learn the skills needed to get on college courses or get into work.”

As part of the project, the pupils are not only learning engineering skills but they are also enjoying the responsibility of running their race team like a business, by raising money and securing sponsorship from local businesses.

Charlie Hames, 15, hopes the project will help her pursue a career in engineering.

She said: “It’s a big change from school, I’ve enjoyed it a lot.

“I want to become an engineer.”

Harry Scotland, 15, says he has enjoyed the course and is determined to make the most of it.

He said: “It’s a great opportunity and I’ve got a lot from it.

“I’m thinking about becoming an Army mechanic.”

Through the project, the team will get the chance to visit Ferrari to learn all about the tricks of the racing trade.

The youngsters need to raise at least £1,500 to buy a carbon fibre body for their car, plus race suits, helmets, gazebos and other materials. 

Anyone who would like to sponsor them can do so online at www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/inverclyde-racers