The initiative – which has also been given a boost with technology firm C5 Alliance extending its sponsorship for the next two years – aims to give students the opportunity to design, build and race their very own small-scale F1 car.
Part of the global STEM Racing programme, it helps students develop essential STEM skills, gain hands-on teamwork experience and get an insight into the industries shaping the future. It can be run either as an in-curriculum programme or as a side project alongside school.
Returning for the second year, the Primary Programme is for pupils aged 9 to 11 and will see them work in teams to design and build a mini race car, made primarily out of paper and card, powered by compressed CO2 canisters. With ongoing support from Digital Jersey, the teams will have a chance to showcase and race their cars down a 25 metretrack at the Jersey Primary Regionals on Friday 22nd January 2027.
Meanwhile, the Secondary Programme for students aged 11 to18, now in its third year, will see teams design their own mini compressed CO2-powered racing car using computer aided design (CAD) software, while also building their manufacturing, business and marketing skills ahead of the Jersey Secondary Regionals on 21st January 2027.
The top teams from the Island, both Primary and Secondary, then have a chance to progress to the UK Nationals, with secondary school teams also having an opportunity to potentially qualify to compete at the World Finals.
Schools and students wanting to take part this year can sign up now here, with Digital Jersey holding a launch event on 15th September at the Digital Jersey Hub for those wanting to find out more. Registration will then close at the end of October.
Last year, a total of almost 300 local students took part across the Primary and Secondary competitions, with a number of schools having the opportunity to represent the island in the UK National Finals.
Commenting on the programme, Tony Moretta, CEO, Digital Jersey, said: “The engagement we’ve had from schools and students through the STEM Racing competition has been incredible and I’m so pleased that we are able to run it again this year, with the Primary and Secondary programmes now running side by side and with the very welcome extended support of C5 Alliance.
“Across both age ranges, the programme covers a huge amount, from project management and business planning, toengineering and design. It’s a fantastic opportunity for local students to get some hands-on experience, develop their STEM skills in a fun and friendly environment, and show just what they are capable of. I’m looking forward to seeing even more local students take up the opportunity this year.”
Matthew Corbin, CEO of C5 Alliance added: “We’re really excited to be extending our support for STEM Racing in Jersey for a further two years. Since Digital Jersey became the centre of excellence for the programme, we’ve seen it evolve into a highly engaging, hands-on initiative that brings STEM subjects to life for young people across the island.
“At C5, we’re focused on supporting programmes like this that not only build technical skills, but also spark curiosity, creativity, confidence and real-world thinking that will stand participants in good stead for the future. STEM Racing is a great example of that approach in action, and we’re looking forward to continuing to work with Digital Jersey to grow its reach and impact over the coming years.”
More information on the initiative, including how schools can register, is available here.
