FIRST UK - Take part header image
FIRST UK - Take part header image

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 UK

Our flagship robotics challenge delivers six months of hands-on student-led learning, culminating in epic regional and national competitions.

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

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

Register your interest

“They don’t have to just challenge themselves in terms of building a robot, mechanics and design. They also have to develop a business plan, a game strategy, plan their own outreach and fundraise,”

Toby Osborne, Assistant Headteacher, Bournemouth School for Girls

More than an after-school club

FIRST Tech Challenge UK crams 30 hours of robotics-based STEM education and careers enrichment across two academic terms, culminating in the UK’s most thrilling robotics competition. But don’t listen to us hear what students and teachers say about the programme.

Flex with your schedule

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

Develop your skills

We offer training for team leads and mentors. No experience needed to get started!

Compete at epic events

Local meet-ups, regional tournaments and even a UK champs. Our events are free and we offer travel bursaries!

Teams in action

This is what hands-on STEM enrichment looks like. See what our teams are designing, building and developing nationwide.

£5,000 of funded STEM enrichment

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.

Get financial support

Let’s dig in!

This year’s theme uncovers the ancient power of the world’s artefacts, called DECODE™ presented by RTX.

Watch season trailer

Join the movement

You’re not alone. You’ll be linked to a local Champion Organisation, supported by a mentor from industry and immersed in our UK-wide community. Oh, and let’s not forget the more than 1 million folk participating globally each year. Register your interest to find out more.

Register your interest

  • 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 engineer better futures.