Championing practical STEM education with Denford Machines and STEM Racing
Harlow College
Background
Harlow College has become a beacon for applied STEM education, blending theory with industry-relevant practice.
Through its investment in Denford machinery and active participation in the STEM Racing (F1 in Schools) programme, the college provides students from a wide range of backgrounds and study areas with engineering experiences that inspire creativity, innovation, and collaboration.
Denford Equipment at the Centre
To support its advanced manufacturing and STEM education objectives, Harlow College has the following equipment, on site:
- 5 x Denford Router 2600 Pro machines
- STEM Racing Track System
- Air Trace Visualisation Systems
This combination allows for both educational flexibility and professional-standard training. Robert McGowan, Engineering Learning Co-ordinator, comments: “The high build quality of the machines, combined with easy-to-use software, makes them an ideal choice for introducing students to CAD/CAM processes and CNC manufacturing. The team at Denford also provides reliable and responsive support, ensuring smooth operation and ongoing success”.
Versatile use across programmes.
While central to the STEM Racing (F1 in Schools) programme, the Denford equipment is also used extensively across a variety of engineering and manufacturing modules. Notable applications include:
- PCB manufacturing: Isolation milling of copper tracks, boring of component holes, and profiling PCB perimeters.
- CNC skills development: Full-time students gain hands-on experience with G&M code programming, MDI & Auto modes, tool offsets, and machine construction principles such as stepper motors, ball-screws, and interlocks.
Students start with basic code instructions and progress to more advanced commands, learning about Cartesian and rotary axis control (including A-axis via the STEM Racing jig). This structured progression embeds both foundational knowledge and practical capability.
Engagement with STEM Racing
Harlow College’s involvement began after attending a National Final shortly after launching its advanced manufacturing centre. Impressed by the educational and engagement potential of the programme, the college has now been participating for over six years.
Robert adds: “STEM Racing is embedded into the college’s enrichment programme, giving all learners - not just those studying STEM subjects - the opportunity to take part. The programme has become a vital part of the college’s learning culture, enabling STEM students to apply their classroom learning in a creative and competitive environment”.
Skills and learning outcomes
The STEM Racing programme offers a rich, multidisciplinary learning experience. Students develop skills in:
- Engineering and design
- Aerodynamics and analysis
- CNC manufacturing and 3D modelling
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Presentation and public speaking
- Time management, budgeting, and sponsorship
- Marketing, branding, and report writing
- Problem solving
- Project Management
This breadth of learning prepares students for a range of careers and helps them become more confident, well-rounded individuals.
STEM engagement and inclusivity
Harlow College sees STEM education as a crucial avenue for driving innovation and tackling inequality. STEM Racing is particularly impactful because of its accessibility and its power to challenge stereotypes - especially around the underrepresentation of women in technical fields.
By opening the programme to all learners, Harlow College ensures that every student can experience the value of STEM, regardless of their starting point.
Regional leadership
As a testament to its leadership in STEM education, Harlow College has proudly hosted several F1 in Schools Regional Finals. These events not only showcase student talent but also deepen the college’s own learners’ engagement in the programme. The college is proud to contribute to the regional STEM community and remains committed to supporting the initiative for years to come.
A true partnership
Harlow College is a shining example of what's possible when cutting-edge technology and passionate education come together. Their integration of Denford machines into the STEM Racing (F1 in Schools) programme gives students unforgettable, hands-on experiences that spark creativity, build confidence, and develop real engineering know-how. What's more, by proudly hosting the Regional Finals each year, Harlow becomes a hub of innovation and inspiration - bringing young minds together and igniting a love for STEM across the region.
"At STEM Racing, we see immense value in partnering with forward-thinking colleges like Harlow. Their dedication to inclusive, practical STEM education helps us reach and inspire a diverse new generation of engineers, designers, and problem-solvers. Together, we're not just teaching skills—we're opening doors to exciting futures in STEM for young people from all backgrounds." Tom Milner, Project Director, STEM Racing.
Conclusion
Harlow College exemplifies how education providers can create lasting impact by combining high-quality equipment with inspiring, inclusive learning programmes. Through its use of Denford machines and deep integration of the STEM Racing (F1 in Schools) initiative, the college empowers students with critical engineering, technical, and professional skills - preparing them to thrive in their chosen careers.
"Denford's equipment not only supports hands-on learning, but also aligns perfectly with the requirements of T Levels and engineering apprenticeships, making it an ideal partner for the College."
James Kitson
Calderdale College
The equipment is easy to use and well-supported, with Denford offering maintenance and opportunities for the School to experience newer technologies.
Matthew Bottom
Lindley Junior School
"The equipment is excellent and also versatile, with the CNC machines being used across a number of projects and the wind tunnel being repurposed for a junior-year rocket project."
Scott Hunter
Turriff Academy
"Denford was chosen for the YAS in Schools Experience Centre due to its focus on education and its links with, and seamless integration into, the F1 in Schools (STEM Racing) program".
James Peacock
YAS in Schools
"The Denford Machinery is exceptionally well made, reliable and very versatile. Having used other brands in the past, Denford is far superior."
Daniel Sword
Bede Academy
"Denford machines serve as a safe, student-friendly introduction to machining while maintaining industrial-level precision and performance."
Neila Jurado-Pontes
University College London
"The program not only builds STEM skills but also provides participants with vital life skills such as teamwork, problem-solving and effective communication. By making STEM exciting and accessible F1 in Schools (STEM Racing) helps break down barriers and encourage broader participation."
Reece Lillie
Aston University
The high build quality of the machines, combined with easy-to-use software, makes them an ideal choice for introducing students to CAD/CAM processes and CNC manufacturing.
Robert McGowan
Harlow College
