Bringing STEM careers to life for more than 20,000 young people beyond the classroom
Held at the NEC in Birmingham from 9 to 11 June, the UK's largest free STEM event for young people welcomed schools from all over. The Big Bang Fair hosts 3 days of hands-on activities, live shows, interactive exhibits and careers inspiration.
More than 23,000 visitors attended The Big Bang Fair 2026, including students and teachers from 353 schools across the UK.
Of the schools attending, 59% met EUK Education's priority schools criteria, helping more young people from groups underrepresented in engineering and technology access inspiring STEM experiences.
Young people came from years 6, 7 and 8 as follows:
- year 6 – 12%
- year 7 – 43%
- year 8 – 45%
Phil McShane, Associate Director of The Big Bang programme, says: "EngineeringUK would like to thank everyone who contributed to the success of this year's Fair, including exhibitors, supporters, volunteers, teachers and schools. Special thanks go to Rolls-Royce plc and Technicians: We make the difference for their continued support. The Big Bang Fair is a huge part of meeting our shared mission: to inspire more young people from all backgrounds to consider a future in engineering and technology."
Bringing STEM careers to life
From interactive challenges and live demonstrations to careers activities and exhibits, The Big Bang Fair helped students connect what they learn in school with the opportunities available in the world of work.
Teachers and careers leaders were able to expose students to a wide range of STEM pathways while supporting careers learning in an engaging and memorable way.
Celebrating student achievement
The Fair also hosted The Big Bang Competition awards ceremony. This year, 800 young people submitted 375 projects, with 38 prizes awarded across science, engineering and technology categories.
We'd like to thank everyone who contributed to the success of this year's Fair, including exhibitors, supporters, volunteers, teachers and schools. Special thanks go to Rolls-Royce plc and Technicians: We make the difference for their continued support. The Big Bang Fair is a huge part of meeting our shared mission: to inspire more young people from all backgrounds to consider a future in engineering and technology.
— Phil McShane, Associate Director of The Big Bang programme
