Good luck with this one DukeZ. This project is something I have been aware of for several years now and it is well worth the effort of getting involved in.
My ex did something similar to what you are proposing, he worked with 14 - 19 year olds at the time and they thoroughly enjoyed themselves taking on every part of the process with very little direction. They actually built a 'buggy stylee machine'.. It was all very exciting for them when they took it to a grass track in Wakefield to test it out.
All in all a great experience for them and something to keep them occupied and off the streets. TOP BANANA