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 rockets, capable of launching a satellite into space.
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!
Winners of the design competition will be invited to join us at the Royal International Air Tattoo and compete with other schools in another STEM Competition.
On the day winners will also win one exclusive robotics STEM Day for their school, provided by the RAF.
When
21 Oct - 21 Oct 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 in space including gravity, forces, motion, and design.
In teams, your students will put their skills to the test and design, build and test three space rockets, 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 aerodynamics in space
Discover the basic principles of gravity, motion and acceleration
Learn about the role engineering plays in space
Apply scientific methods to design and test rockets
Develop teamwork, listening and problem-solving skills
In Partnership With
