ADS, the UK’s AeroSpace, Defence and Security trade organisation, has launched the 2011 UK Schools Aerospace Youth Rocketry Challenge.
The competition, which will attract teams from schools all over the UK, with students aged 11 to 18, will represent a chance for young people to apply to a real scenario the notions they learn in class.
The Aerospace Youth Rocketry Challenge aims to harness the interest of students in science and maths and to inform them and their teachers about the careers available in the UK aerospace sector and in wider high-tech engineering industries.
Ian Godden, Chairman of ADS, said: “Having been involved in the event annually since 2008 I can assure any school thinking of taking part that not only does the challenge supplement existing science learning in the classroom with enjoyable practical activities but that it also delivers positive teamwork skills along with interaction with an industry that could provide young people with highly-rewarding future careers.”
The UK Rocketry Challenge was won by the UK team in 2008 and 2009. The finals of this year’s challenge will be on 11 May 2011 at the Royal Logistic Corps Territorial Army Headquarters in Grantham, Lincolnshire.
The winners will fly their rocket against winning teams from France and the US during the Paris Air Show in June next year.
Dr Mike Shovlin, physics teacher at Horsforth School in Leeds, said: “Our school has participated in the UKAYRoC competition for the last three years, and interest within the school has grown significantly each year. As a teacher, I have seen how this competition can inspire young people and change their outlook on their own future. It acts as a foundation stone for securing our future scientists and engineers, by encouraging participation in a challenging and fun opportunity.”
The closing date for entries is 17 December 2010.
