Prepare for take-off! Road to RIAT is back, and it’s bigger than ever! We’re inviting primary school students aged 9-10 (Year 5) from 600 primary schools across the UK to join us for a year of fun, interactive STEM activities. This fantastic initiative is brought to you by the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust and delivered in partnership with the Royal Air Force and The Smallpeice Trust.
About the STEM Challenge
Joining us via a virtual livestream, our team of STEM Engagement Specialists will guide your students and demonstrate how they can make their very own gliders, exploring basic principles of aerodynamics.
We provide all the materials needed for up to 45 students, delivered directly to your school before your chosen event.
After the STEM Challenge...
The adventure continues! Students will take part in the ‘Sustainable Aircraft of the Future’ design competition, where students will envision and design a sustainable aircraft for a chance to win some fantastic prizes for their school.
Prizes will include: £100, two LEGO® Education SPIKE™ Prime kits (worth over £800), and winners will get exclusive access to the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) in July 2026!
All participating schools will be invited to join us in the summer term for “Meet the STEM Superstars” – An amazing virtual opportunity to learn more about careers in STEM and the stars behind them!
When
06 Nov - 06 Nov 2025
Start time: 09:30 hrs
Finish time: 15:00 hrs
Where
Virtual delivery
Cost
Fully funded
What
Transform your classroom into an aerospace hub for the day!
During the livestream, students will learn about the basic principles of aerodynamics including forces, shape, wing design, and forces.
In teams, your students will put their skills to the test and design, build and test three gliders, each unique in design and shape, using materials provided to your school.
Students will use their teamwork, critical thinking, communication, and creativity skills to complete this challenge.
How
This event will include the following:
Explore the science behind flight
Master the art of balancing forces during flight
Learn about wing shape, aircraft design, balance and force
Apply scientific methods to test and refine gliders
Discover the role engineering plays in aerospace.
In Partnership With
