TWO teams of skilled pupils at a Markyate school with a flair for design have made it through to the regional finals of a competition.

The students at Beechwood Park School have spent months preparing for the Toyota Technology Challenge.

Using knowledge acquired from their design and technology class, the teams dreamed up ideas for solar powered and sensor-led cars – which impressed the judges.

After competing against schools from other regions across the south east region they have now made it through to the finals.

Team one, made up of 13-year-old's Robbie Lightowler, Tristan Brown and Felix Terrell and 12-year-old Sam Machell, came up with their name Solor 7 inspired from their love of James Bond and the solar powered car.

Robbie said: “We started off in our design and technology class and we have all used our individual skills during the project.

“It's been really fun and challenging and also exciting working together as a team to get through to the finals.”

The pupils praised their teacher Lis Rowley for the time and effort she has put in to ensure they succeed.

Team two, made up of 13-year-olds Edward Horn and Matthew Coster, 12-year-old Will Bigwood and 11-year-old George Pool were able to design their car thanks to their expertise in electronics.

Naming themselves Vetronics, because they have been sponsored by a veterinary surgery and the theme of their project electronics, the pupils have designed their car which uses sensors to navigate around obstacles.

Speaking about the challenge Matthew said: “We have had to make the model about six times before we got it right.

“We are really excited about it and hope we win the finals.”

Lis Rowley design and technology teacher at the Pickford Road school said her pupils have put in extra hours, working during lunch and after school to complete the project.

She added: “This has been really good for the students especially while working in teams.

“They have had to put in extra hours and just to see their determination so I really hope they win the finals because they deserve it.”

The teams will compete in the finals on Monday, April 26 when they will present their project to Toyota representatives who will pick the winners.