Young People Lead the Way

This is not a traditional classroom-based course or toy-based play activity. Young people take the lead in their learning, research and project development, with mentors providing guidance, advice and technical support when needed.

Participants are expected to investigate ideas, carry out independent research, solve problems and contribute to team projects. Some research, planning and project development will take place at home between sessions.

The programme encourages independence, teamwork, creativity, scientific thinking and practical engineering skills.

Teams are assigned a primary mission of measuring air pressure and air temperature during the CanSat's descent, with data being transmitted to the students' ground station. They are also tasked with designing a secondary mission of their choosing. It can be based on other satellite missions, a perceived need for scientific data for a specific project, a technology demonstration of a student-designed component, or any other mission that fits the CanSat’s capabilities.

Students develop key skills in systems design, programming, electronics, data analysis, project planning, and teamwork - gaining a genuine insight into what it means to design a space mission.

Important: Registration and Selection

Registration does not guarantee a place. Places are limited and will be allocated through a selection process, with priority given to young people who face barriers to participation. Contact us for eligibility.

Attendance and Commitment

Participants are expected to attend sessions regularly and contribute to their team's research and engineering projects.

If you are unable to attend, please notify us in advance. Repeated absences without prior notice may result in your place being offered to someone on the waiting list.

Young people should also be prepared to undertake independent research and project-related tasks at home between sessions.

Expectations of Parents and Carers

Parents and carers play an important role in supporting this youth-led initiative. Families will be asked to commit to supporting at least one First Step Robotics youth event during the programme, or alternatively volunteer to help with practical tasks such as setting up equipment, preparing the venue or tidying up after sessions.

This shared commitment helps create a supportive community around the young people, while allowing them to take ownership of their learning and engineering projects.

Supported by Young Start funding from The National Lottery Community Fund.

First Step Innovate provides opportunities for young people to explore engineering, develop practical skills and work together on ambitious projects.

Ready to Explore Space Engineering?

Register your interest in First Step Innovate. Places are limited, and applications will be considered through our selection process.