Launch4Change 2026-27

Launch4Change is a schools' Outreach project led by LURA (a student society in the School of Mechanical Engineering) that includes an in-school programme and taking part in the regional UKROC Competition.

Targeted at year 10 - 12 students, activity will run as follows:

• In-school workshops (classroom based up to 4 p/school) 60 mins - November - March 2026 (to select preferred dates & times)
• UKROC Regional Competition - 22, 23 & 24 March 2027 @ Elvington Airfield, YO41 4XS

Please note that materials and resources will be provided free of charge and travel bursaries are available to and from the regional competition.

A national challenge for tomorrow’s engineers

UKROC is an exciting, hands-on competition that promotes STEM, creativity, innovative thinking and essential life skills. Aimed at students aged 11–18 from secondary schools, colleges, educational institutions, or youth groups, the challenge invites teams to design, build and launch a model rocket carrying a fragile payload — two raw eggs!!

Each year, teams must meet a set of specific rules that change annually to inspire innovation and fresh design approaches. Rockets must reach a target altitude and flight duration while keeping the payload intact. Participating in UKROC boosts confidence and self-esteem, preparing the future workforce with practical skills.