We are inviting industry to discuss potential sponsorship packages to support our UK Youth Rocketry Challenge 2026.
About UKROC
The UK Youth Rocketry Challenge (UKROC) is a national competition for young people aged 11 – 18 from any secondary schools, colleges, educational facilities or youth groups to design, build and launch a model rocket with a fragile payload (usually one raw egg). The competition is an exciting way to engage the next generation. Promoting STEM, creativity, innovation and crucial life skills, it is a great way for young people to gain hands-on engineering and presentation skills.
However, it is more than a challenge; it’s a launchpad for innovation, talent and industry collaboration. Exploring aerospace, aviation and space, UKROC acts as an extension to what students are already learning in Science, Technology and Maths. This helps setting young people up with the right knowledge and transferable skills for a career in ADS’ sectors.
The competition consists of regional events across the UK, followed by a UK national final. It culminates in an international final held at either Farnborough International Airshow or the International Paris Airshow, where the winning UK team competes against teams from the United States, Japan and France.
Team 'Star Lings' from Teignmouth Secondary School came a very close 2nd place at the International Final at Paris Airshow in 2025 (video below). The next international final will be held at Farnborough International Airshow 2026.
A view from ADS
ADS is the proud organiser of the UK Youth Rocketry Challenge (UKROC) and has been running the event annually since 2006.
The competition plays a vital role in addressing the UK’s STEM skills shortage. With more than 10,000 vacancies reported across the aerospace, defence, security and space industries, the competition helps build a pipeline of future talent in a fun and practical way. The future success of our sectors will be driven by a new generation of talent with transferable skills and qualifications in STEM subjects. UKROC is the perfect opportunity to inspire young people to consider high-value, high-wage and high-skilled career opportunities in the aerospace, defence and space industries.
ADS Chief Executive, Kevin Craven said:
"The UK Youth Rocketry Challenge is a fantastic example of how the aerospace, defence, security and space sectors can support and encourage young people into fascinating and rewarding careers in our four flourishing sectors.
With more than 26,000 apprenticeships across our industries, we are committed to building a strong pipeline of talent to meet the demands of the future. Continued support for initiatives like this is vital to tackling the UK’s growing skills gap and opening up high-quality career opportunities for young people across the UK."
Sponsorship Packages Available
UKROC would not be possible without the support from sponsors, partners and industry specialists. Your contribution helps us grow the number of participating teams and opens up the opportunity to more young people. Businesses can connect with the brightest young minds, showcase their commitment to STEM and help shape the next generation of engineers and sector leaders. Primarily we look for financial support from sponsors which enables us to offer a compelling and affordable STEM experience.
By sponsoring you are helping young people gain the right knowledge and transferable skills for a future career in our sectors. It offers a rewarding route for companies to invest in their communities and the future of their industries. Organisations can develop closer ties with schools and youth groups, engage parents and nurture young talent.
Find out more
View sponsorship opportunities here and to discuss further please contact Head of Event Sales, Joe Peace.
