The year 9 students made it through to the national finals of the F1 in Schools Technology Challenge.

The competition is being held in conjunction with the car race.

The team of Dennis Nguyen, Reice Williams, Sandy Le, Nguyen Hoang and Corrina Barrs will compete against teams from 26 other schools.

Industrial arts teacher Lee Miller said the community was behind them.

``They're representing Liverpool first, and then NSW,'' he said.

Their custom-designed race car will speed down a 20 metre track.

The software is used by professionals including Yamaha, Toyota and Boeing.

Mr Miller said the competition wasn't just about crossing the finish line first.

The team would also be judged on work ethics, engineering knowledge, presentation, campaign strategies and mechanical feasibility.

Mr Miller said workers at Garard Engineering in Liverpool were so impressed by the students' skill they were all offered jobs.

He said their achievement encouraged the school to introduce engineering studies permanently.

``They started the project in year 8 and it was the first time engineering had been offered at the school,'' Mr Miller said.

Team leader Dennis Nguyen said the car they had built travelled the 20- metre track in 1.044 seconds, which is about 80km/h. The Australian record is 1.020 seconds.

``I think we will win,'' he said.

``If we do, we go to Singapore for the world finals.''

The students went on 2UE radio station recently to appeal for funds.

``They have also gone to the Liverpool Chamber of Commerce meeting, met the mayor, attended Rotary functions, sold raffle tickets and met local businesses,'' Mr Miller said.

``Instead of just being given the money on a plate they've had to work hard for it.''

The students need to raise at least $13,000 and still need sponsorship before the race day on Thursday, March 25. Details: 96078011.