Students from across Mid Sussex have kicked off this year’s STEM Challenge, designing and racing vehicles powered purely by potential energy. The launch took place at the Mid Sussex District Council Chamber on October 24, marking the start of the “Potential Pit Stop Challenge”, where teams will build innovative vehicles that race a set course, load weights in a pit stop zone, and demonstrate creative engineering and design skills.

The event was officially opened by Andrewjohn Stephenson Clarke, Deputy Lieutenant of West Sussex, who praised students, teachers, and organisers for their commitment to STEM education. Industry experts from Flowserve, Make UK, and other leading organisations shared their experiences, inspiring students to explore the exciting opportunities that careers in science, technology, engineering, and maths can offer.

Running through to July 2026, the challenge will see teams compete for awards in Engineering, Project Presentation, and Race Challenge. Partner companies, including Thales, Nuffield Health, Balfour Beatty, and Willmott Dixon, will mentor students throughout the project, helping them develop both technical and teamwork skills essential for future success in STEM fields.

You can read the full article about the launch event and this year’s challenge here.