January 4, 2010 -- Cross-curricular topic teaching is enjoying a come-back in primary education with the purchase of Race to Learn, a cross-curricular resource for Years 5 and 6, by London Grid for Learning.

Available to London’s 2,000 primary schools through London Grid for Learning, Race to Learn provides a real-life context for learning with a range of 12 different educational activities based around Formula One motor racing.  The software was developed by Cambridge-Hitachi on behalf of Cambridge University Press and Williams F1, who provided exclusive behind-the-scenes video and photographs. 

Designed for interactive whiteboards, Race to Learn covers key curriculum topics – Science, Maths, Literacy, Geography, PSHE, Design & Technology, Physical Education – with each one linked to the relevant National Curriculum/Framework objectives.

“What makes Race to Learn different from other cross-curricular resources is its teaching of group working skills,” said Bob Usher, Content Manager at London Grid for Learning.  “It strongly supports the SEAL (Social and Emotional Aspects of Learning) outcomes with each activity involving group working in one way or another.  There’s no doubt that London’s school children will benefit developing these skills which are so valuable in life.”

The first activity introduces group working, using the team-working ethic of motor racing to illustrate this – success is the result of a team effort, not just how well the driver raced on the day.  Other activities include designing the team logo, investigating air resistance, handling race data and pitching for sponsorship.

Race to Learn includes detailed teacher guidance on every screen, with teacher’s notes that provide ideas for differentiation, assessment and additional activities for the gifted and talented. 

“Race to Learn is attractive to all learners, girls as well as boys.  When the software was trialled in real classrooms, we were pleased to see that even the more reluctant learners who rarely engaged in class were joining in with the group working and enjoying the opportunity to shine,” said Alastair Horne, Product manager for Race to Learn at Cambridge University Press.

To find out more about Race to Learn, visit www.racetolearn.org  or contact Sarah Keefe, Marketing Manager, New Directions Group, Cambridge University Press, Shaftesbury Road, Cambridge, CB2 8BS  Tel: 01223 325048 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

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