Secondary schools and colleges across the North East are invited to take part in an ambitious new STEM competition combining engineering, creativity and storytelling - with a once-in-a-lifetime motorsport experience up for grabs.

The North East STEM Foundation (NESF), in partnership with Ducati UK, has launched its 2026 competition: ‘Build the Villain’s Machine.’

Students aged 11-16 will be tasked with reimagining a Ducati motorcycle, transforming it into a high-performance ‘villain machine’ blending engineering, luxury design and cinematic creativity.

Teams will select a Ducati model - such as the Panigale, Diavel or Monster - research how it works, and redesign it with enhanced performance, materials and features. Each entry will also include a unique identity, name and backstory, brought to life through visuals and specifications.

The winning team will be rewarded with an exclusive Ducati & Silverstone Performance Experience, including a behind-the-scenes visit to Ducati UK headquarters to learn how high-performance bikes are developed.

They will also visit the iconic Silverstone Circuit, with a guided tour of the track and museum, plus opportunities to meet industry professionals and explore real-world engineering in action.

Tania Cooper MBE, Chair of NESF, said: “This competition is about inspiring young people to see engineering as creative, innovative and full of possibility.

“By partnering with Ducati, we’re giving students in the North East a unique opportunity to connect classroom learning with real-world performance engineering. The chance to visit Ducati and experience Silverstone is truly special.”

Fabrizio Cazzoli, the Managing Director of Ducati UK (pictured above) said: “We are proud to support the North East STEM Foundation and its work to inspire young people across the region. Encouraging future talent to explore engineering, design, and innovation is something we are deeply passionate about.”

Each school can enter one team of 8–12 students, with entries judged on engineering understanding, creativity, design impact and presentation. Shortlisted teams will also be recognised at the NESF Annual Charity Dinner in September 2026.

The competition is now open. Schools should register by 30 April 2026, with final submissions due by 19 June 2026.

Schools and colleges wishing to take part should email Michelle@nesf.org.uk