2 min read - 7 May, 2026
Rocketry challenge inspires future workforce of 200 schoolchildren in the South West
Over 200 school students have taken part in the largest South West Regional Final of the 2026 UK Youth Rocketry Challenge (UKROC), which saw 40 teams from 27 schools and youth groups battle it out for a spot in the UKROC National Final.
The competition sees teams of students aged 11-18 design, build and launch a model rocket to an altitude of 750 feet, all while carrying a precious payload – a raw egg.
Hosted at Abbeyfield School in Chippenham, students from UTC Portsmouth (day one winners) and The Henrietta Barnett School (day two winners) will now advance on to the next stage of the competition, where they will compete against fellow regional champions for the national title. All regional winners will now refine their rockets as they prepare for the National Finals in June.
Students from 27 schools have taken part in the largest South West Regional Final of the UK Youth Rocketry Challenge (UKROC) / Picture: ADS Group
Running for over 20 years, the competition is organised by ADS, the trade association for the aerospace, defence, security, and space sectors, and sponsored by industry partners Airbus, Frankenburg Technologies and Saab UK.
Ed Raggett, ADS South West Director, said: “Congratulations to all teams that participated. Initiatives like UKROC give young people the confidence to test ideas, solve problems and work as engineering teams — skills that are invaluable beyond the classroom. With global aviation demand rising and aircraft order backlogs growing, developing future interest in our sectors through STEM activities like UKROC is vital. The South West plays a key role in the UK’s aerospace and advanced manufacturing landscape, and it’s encouraging to see that enthusiasm reflected in local schools.”
UTC Portsmouth and The Henrietta Barnett School were crowned the South West regional champions, with the National Finals taking place in June / Picture: ADS Group
Andy Fraser, group managing director at Saab UK, added: “Saab UK is driven to support the next generation of defence and engineering talent, and we’re impressed by the drive and expertise demonstrated by the teams taking part in UKROC. Initiatives like this give young people across the UK the chance to push their abilities, build confidence in their skills and creativity, and take meaningful steps toward future careers in our industry. Their passion and potential are truly inspiring.”
