TDI Challenge: MTA’s flagship school competition launches for 2019

The national competition encourages students to submit their existing coursework projects, which would go towards either their GCSE, A-Level or BTEC qualifications.

Mike Falconer, education and development manager at the MTA, said: “We’re pleased to launch this year’s edition of the TDI Challenge. Every year we’re amazed by all the fantastic projects that are entered. TDI lets students use their imaginations to create something unique, the level of skill and application of manufacturing processes on show always astounds the judges.

He continued “for many former winners and entrants this competition has been their first step into a career in manufacturing and engineering - we’re excited to see what this year will bring.”

There are four prize categories to be judged, two in each age group which are 14-16 and 17-19. Each age category have two prizes up for grabs for individual and group projects. The winner in each category will receive an individual prize (including iPads, GoPro cameras, Minirig speakers and drones) as well as up to £2000 of funding to spend on new Design and Technology (D&T) equipment for the classroom.

• Individual student aged 14-16 (GCSE/KS4/BTEC L2)


• Individual student aged 17-19 (A-Level/BTEC L3)


• Student group (3-6 members) aged 14-16 (GCSE/KS4/BTEC L2)


• Student group (3-6 members) aged 17-19 (A-Level/BTEC L3)

Previous winners and participants have used the TDI as a springboard into the industry. Last year’s winner in the 17-19 age category was Robbie MacIsaac of Strathallan School in Perth Scotland. His FLUX Blowpipe design, reduced the amount of moisture that gathers in a Bagpipes, Blowpipe when performing, his project gained a lot of attention and appeared on BBC Radio Scotland, the Times, the Scotsman newspaper and many other publications.

The closing date for entries is 15^th May 2019, and only one application per student or group will be accepted. Schools are permitted to enter multiple students. Students cannot enter both the individual and group categories. Finalists will be notified by Friday 7 June 2019. The TDI Challenge is open to any student living in the United Kingdom. Entries must be from current students submitting current coursework, not work from a previous year.

MTA www.mta.org.uk