Over 300 students from across the city region gathered last month at the University of Greater Manchester’s Bolton campus to participate in a STEM Racing competition supported by Formula 1. The event challenged pupils to design, construct, and race compressed air-powered miniature cars along a 20-metre track, emulating real motorsport engineering demands.
Local Schools Excel and Secure National Final Berths
Teams representing Manchester and Huddersfield shone, with Altrincham Grammar School for Boys and Manchester Grammar School earning top positions that grant them entry to the STEM Racing UK National Finals in 2026. The upcoming finals will take place at the Magna Science Adventure Centre in Sheffield in March.
Aryan, team manager of Draco Racing from Altrincham Grammar School for Boys, shared his reflections:
“But it’s also taught us a lot about what we need to improve for National Finals, which is really important; we know we have to really focus if we want to be successful there – we enjoy the challenge so much though, so we’re prepared to work hard for it.”
Aryan, Team Manager
Competition Demands Engineering and Business Acumen
The contest extended beyond car building to include enterprise portfolios, brand identity development, and project management plans. Divided into four divisions—Primary, Entry, Professional, and Development—the event encouraged participants to build essential skills before advancing to more advanced levels.
In the Professional category, Draco Racing took first place, followed by SkyStrike Racing from Manchester Grammar School securing second. Manchester Grammar School’s Icarion team triumphed in the Development category. Both Professional and Development winners will aim to qualify for the prestigious Aramco STEM Racing World Finals 2026, scheduled to take place at Resorts World Sentosa in Singapore.
Industry Experts Recognize Exceptional Team Efforts
A judging panel made up of industry professionals and STEM Racing alumni assessed entries on engineering precision, enterprise initiatives, project management, brand creativity, and presentation quality. Each victorious team received a bespoke award crafted by The Engineering Centre, led by Calderdale College, using materials generously donated by sponsor CERATIZIT.
Advancing Youth Engagement in STEM Motorsport Engineering
By combining hands-on engineering experience with business and presentation skills, this event is equipping young people with a comprehensive skill set essential for future careers in STEM and motorsport. The upcoming national and world finals promise to offer even greater opportunities for these ambitious students to develop and demonstrate their talents on an international stage.
