FIRST Tech Challenge UK - Take part page - Header image _LRG
FIRST Tech Challenge UK - Take part page - Header image _LRG

More than a robotics programme

We empower young people to develop the technical and soft skills they need to take on the future.

FIRST Tech Challenge

Our flagship robotics challenge packs a punch with 6 months of student-directed learning culminating in a global competition.

Supported by an industry mentor, young people aged 12-18 design, build and compete with a robot to take on a global challenge. The charity funded STEM enrichment programme runs from September to March after-school, or in the classroom.

Young people develop technical knowledge and life skills whilst broadening understanding of STEM education and career pathways. Teachers receive training, resources and industry support.

Learn how at our next webinar

FIRST Tech Challenge UK enables our academies to deliver an engaging enrichment programme, career development opportunities and supports the STEM curriculum. The quality and reach of their programme is unrivalled.”

Jemima Waltho, National Enrichment Lead, Ormiston Academies Trust

Flex with your schedule

Typically, teams meet weekly for one to two hours as an after-school club, lunchtime activity, or in the classroom.

Register your interest

Develop your skills

We offer training online or in-person to team leads and mentors. We provide grants to help with supply cover and travel.

Join our intro webinar

Compete at epic events

Attend local meet-ups, compete in a regional tournament and earn a spot at the nationals. We offer free events and travel bursaries.

Discover our events

What’s in store?

The 2024 game theme has landed. It’s all about STEAM. Get your creative on.

Watch season trailer

£5,000 of STEM enrichment for free. Seriously.

We’re a charity here to invest in you. Our bursary scheme provides a rich, self-directed learning experience filled with educational content, reusable robotics kits, free events, industry engagement and accredited awards. The monetary value is £5,000 per team of 15 young people. The impact value is far greater.

Join our next webinar

FIRST Tech Challenge UK - join webinar - header image

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Content

Developed by teachers and students our resources are mapped to the curriculum, navigated via our learning management system.

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Technology

We connect the digital with the physical. Hands on learning with a reusable robotics kit and the latest online tools found in the workplace.

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Encounters

Our student-directed, mentor supported programme offers regular, rich and meaningful encounters with role models from industry.

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Competition

Our sports-inspired robotics tournaments take place locally and nationally – driving aspiration and collaboration. They’re free to attend.

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Recognition

Beyond coding and engineering – our awards champion creativity, collaboration and resilience. We’re also CREST Gold accredited.

Code with Kobot

Built with Bloomberg software engineers, this free confidence-boosting robot simulator establishes the basic principles of computer science and coding. Incorporating five 45-minute sessions which can be delivered in the classroom or after school.

Get first access

Join the movement

You’re not alone. You’ll be linked to a local Champion Organisation, supported by a mentor from industry and connected with an experienced buddy team. Oh, and let’s not forget the 1 million folk participating globally each year.

Register your team

  • We build More Than Robots

    We use robots, role models and competitions to make STEM less intimidating, more diverse and inclusive, empowering young people to make informed choices about their future.