The Cherwell School receives two laser cutters from Lucy Electric

Pupils at Oxford's The Cherwell school are set to benefit from two laser cutters worth £5,000 each, which have been donated by Thame-based power solutions firm Lucy Electric, part of the business' commitment commitment to support the next generation of engineers in Oxfordshire.

Claire Starkey, development manager at the well-known school, which recently celebrated its 60th birthday, said: "We are delighted to receive this generous donation.

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"All 800 students take DT in years 7-9 and we currently have 85 on the GCSE course and 60 studying at A Level. We are a split site school, so can now have one machine on each site, giving every student access to laser cutting.

"The machinery uses software and processes that prepare students for university or work by using the same technologies they would find in industry."

John Griffiths, CEO at Lucy Electric, added: "We want young people to discover their inner engineer and to pursue STEM subjects in further education.

"The next generation of scientists, engineers, technicians and apprentices will be instrumental in finding solutions to some of the world’s biggest challenges."

In 1980, the school's engineering team won the prestigious ‘BP Build a Car’ competition, with its Chuggy’ 600cc car featuring in TV appearances and accolades for the students.

Headteacher at The Cherwell School noted: "Amongst the archives back in 1980 was a letter from Lucy Group recognising our achievement and showing their support.

"It is wonderful that we have maintained that relationship and that it is now helping a completely different generation of students."