The team of six – Genevieve Brennan, Jamie McShane, Kevin McGuigan, Niamh Clarke, Rosa Hodge and Sam Brown – impressed judges with their ideas on improving the sustainability of theme parks in the UK.

Their project, Theme Park for the Future, examined theme park eco-policies and found that few had ambitious enough targets.

“We planned, designed and modelled rollercoasters that used renewable and sustainable energy sources. Our three main ideas were to use wind, solar and kinetic energy produced by park visitors,” said St Aidan’s pupil Genevieve.

“We also considered ways to minimise the park’s carbon footprint, for example, by looking into locally produced food for park goers.”

The judges were impressed with their research findings and working 3D-printed model and commented, “Wow! This was an exciting project. You worked well as a team and identified key roles you could all undertake.

“It was also great to see your tests and designs come to life through your models, sketches and proposals.

“We have been impressed by the level of research you have done in the different areas, from waste, renewable energy, and weather forecasts, to show the site's viability!”