More than a STEM enrichment programme
We equip young people with the essential skills to engineer better futures.
Building more than robots
FIRST Tech Challenge is an accredited, robotics-based, industry-linked, enrichment programme for young people aged 12-18. It can be delivered in the classroom, after school, or in a community group setting across the UK. From September to March, teams design, build, code, and compete with robots to earn industry-judged awards.
By participating, young people develop essential life and technical skills, empowering them to make positive educational and career choices. Teachers reignite passion for hands-on learning whilst developing professional networks. Schools gain access to industry partnerships whilst achieving careers and education benchmarks.
“FIRST UK takes young people who may lack confidence and turns them into leaders, public speakers, engineers, teachers and so much more. You will be astonished by how much these young people can achieve.”
Bec Fallows, Computer Science Teacher, St Margaret Ward Catholic Academy
Design, build, code
Using a robotics kit with over 1,400 parts teams turn concepts into point-scoring robots using applied design and engineering.
Connect with community
Teams develop engineering portfolios and outreach plans teaching them to pitch, plan and problem-solve like pros.
Compete at events
From local meet-ups, regional tournaments through to the UK champs – teams showcase their talent at high-octane competitions.
Skills building
Cramming at least 30 hours of STEM enrichment across two academic terms, the programme is mapped to Gatsby Benchmarks 4-7 and the Universal Skills Framework 2.0, and supports the KS3+4 curriculum for Computer Science, Design & Technology and Engineering. In addition to industry-judged awards, participants can obtain the Gold CREST Award and the Industrial Cadets Gold.
Supported from the start
From day one, you’re backed by a collaborative community who have lived and breathed the programme for seasons before you. No prior experience necessary!
You’ll be part of a hub supported by an experienced school or partner who’s been through the programme many times before.
You’ll have access to volunteers from leading UK companies, bridging the classroom with the workplace and coaching your team.
Our regional programme managers set you up for success, embed your team within your hub and signpost support.
£3,000 of funded STEM enrichment
We’re a charity here to invest in young people who will engineer a better future. Each year, we have a limited number of bursaries available to non-fee-paying schools and youth organisations.
| Full bursary | Partial bursary | Self-funded | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Robotics kit (one-off) | Covered | £300 | £1,200 |
| Commitment fee (annual) | £399 | £399 | £399 |
| Total (VAT incl) | £399 | £699 | £1,599 |
Teams in action
This is what hands-on STEM enrichment looks like. See what our teams are designing, building and developing across the UK.
Bee curious!
This year’s biodiversity-themed game, BIOBUZZ™ presented by RTX, invites teams to find ways to strengthen the connections that protect our shared home.
Ready to build more than robots?
2026-27 team registration is officially open. Spots are limited. The robots are impatient. Let’s get building.
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