Our year 12 maths learners enjoyed an ELP with Al, Dale and Terry from National Grid exploring electric vehicles and the application of fermi using graphs and calculations.  
 
Fermi estimation is a problem-solving approach that uses rough but educated guesses to simplify complex problems. This technique is valuable when exact figures are unavailable, yet a general understanding or rough approximation is needed. Through this project, learners were able to approach this curriculum topic in a real-world context.  
 
During the session, learners were introduced to the work that the National Grid does to connect people to the energy they use and how the company makes money. Our visitor spoke about the exciting advances in EV technology that are essential in transforming the UK into a low carbon economy. Learners discussed the growth of this market and the necessity to build an infrastructure of charging stations to support it.  
 
After discussing this exciting industry and the potential problems that may arise from its growth, learners were set a series of challenges where they had to put their fermi estimation skills to the test. For example, learners were tasked to “Estimate how many charging stations should be there by 2050 to meet the consumer demand? State the assumptions you make and show your working.” 
 
This ELP was a perfect combination of teaching our learners a key topic on the curriculum and preparing them for how it can be valuable in a leading industry. Thanks to Al, Dale and Terry from National Grid for such an impactful visit.