An Overview

STEM Racing (formerly F1 in Schools) is a global, non-profit STEM education programme that uses the excitement and context of Formula 1–style racing to inspire young people to engage deeply with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Founded in the United Kingdom in 1999, the programme began with just eight schools and has since grown into the world’s largest STEM-based educational competition, now operating in over 60 countries and reaching millions of students worldwide .

History and Evolution

Originally launched as F1 in Schools, the programme was created to address declining interest in engineering and technical careers by providing a hands-on, real-world learning experience. Over time, it evolved into STEM Racing, reflecting a broader mission beyond motorsport and emphasizing inclusivity, sustainability, and global impact. Despite the name change, the programme retains its strong connection to Formula 1 as a powerful motivational and educational framework .

Mission and Educational Purpose

The mission of STEM Racing is to empower, inspire, and motivate students aged 6–19 by immersing them in a multidisciplinary challenge that mirrors professional engineering and business environments. Students work in teams to design, analyse, manufacture, test, and race miniature compressed-gas-powered cars, while also managing budgets, sponsorship, branding, and project timelines .

The programme aims to:

• Change perceptions of STEM subjects by making them exciting, practical, and relevant

• Reduce attainment gaps by engaging students from diverse backgrounds

• Develop both technical competence and life skills, including teamwork, communication, leadership, and problem-solving

• Create clear pathways to future careers in engineering, technology, project management, and business .

Significance in STEM Education

STEM Racing is significant because it goes far beyond traditional classroom learning. It provides a complete engineering pipeline experience, combining:

• Science (physics, aerodynamics, materials)

• Technology (CAD, CFD, CAM, data analysis)

• Engineering (design, manufacturing, testing, optimisation)

• Mathematics (data interpretation, performance analysis)

• Enterprise and Project Management (budgets, sponsorship, planning, marketing)

By integrating these disciplines into a competitive, team-based challenge, STEM Racing enables students to apply theoretical knowledge in authentic contexts, reinforcing learning and increasing engagement. The programme is widely recognised for its ability to bridge education and industry, with many alumni progressing into careers in Formula 1 teams, engineering firms, and technology companies .

Global Impact

Today, STEM Racing operates in tens of thousands of schools globally, supported by industry partners and educational institutions. Its reach and longevity demonstrate its effectiveness as a tool for fostering innovation, developing future talent, and preparing young people for the demands of a rapidly evolving, technology-driven world