A challenging day with clear support around your child.
UKSDC asks students to solve a space design problem together, present their work and take responsibility for their part of the team. Here is how the event works and what families need to arrange.
What happens at a heat?
Your child’s school team stays together and joins one or two other teams in a larger company. They receive a brief, design a space settlement and present their proposal to judges.
- Typical day
- Regional events usually run from about 8.30am to 8pm, though some are shorter. Check your child’s event details for the exact timetable.
Supervision
and consent
- Responsible adult
- Every team has a responsible adult aged 21 or over who stays at the venue throughout the event and is copied into team correspondence.
- Photography
- SSEF asks for photography consent through the registration form.
What will
it cost?
- Travel
- Families cover their own travel to and from regional events.
- Food and drink
- Students should bring a packed lunch and plenty to drink.
The National Final and international event
Winning teams from regional and digital heats qualify for the National Final at Imperial College London in March. Twelve students are then selected to represent the UK at the international competition.
The 2027 ISSDC is in London.
Details of the Final’s accommodation and family costs will be provided when SSEF confirms the current policy.
How your child can take part
Most students enter through their school. If there is no school team, UKSDC may accept an independent team with a parent or guardian as the supervising adult. Ask a teacher about entering, or contact UKSDC for advice.