The aim of this challenge is to provide primary school children with an introduction to the exciting world of engineering and technology in a fun and educational way. The challenge is open to primary schools or organizations teaching pupils aged 7 - 11 years old in the UK. The initial challenge is normally run for a classroom of approximately 30 pupils and is suitable for children of all abilities. Schools may enter more than one class of pupils.

The challenge

The challenge has four of levels of participation: School, Area, Regional and National. Each level involves pupils working in teams of two to demonstrate their problem solving skills, their imagination, creativity and ingenuity by designing and making a model using special K’NEX kits provided by Young Engineers. The pupils draw their ideas first and then build their solution, adapting their initial designs as they learn what works and what doesn’t!

Every level has different fun challenges with the best team progressing to the next level. Each level is designed to stretch the pupil’s ability from one level to the next so that every stage will teach them new skills. Every pupil that participates receives a certificate of achievement which shows which level they have reached.

The challenge is run from specially provided competition kits, so schools do not have to supply their own K’NEX!