Formula 1 and British Council Extend Learning Sectors Education Initiative
Following a highly successful pilot year that engaged over 150,000 young people across the United Kingdom, India, Brazil, and South Africa, Formula 1 has announced a two-year extension of its collaboration with the British Council for the Learning Sectors education programme. This expanded initiative is set to reach nearly 250,000 students in more than 1,000 schools worldwide, now including F1 host nations China, Spain, and Mexico.
Programme Overview and Expansion
Launched in January 2025, Learning Sectors is designed to bring the excitement of Formula 1 into classrooms, sparking interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths (STEM) while enhancing communication and presentation skills. The programme will introduce a new module inspired by Formula 1's broadcast and production capabilities, aimed at encouraging greater participation in media careers, particularly among girls and underrepresented groups.
In 2025, the programme facilitated cross-border STEM projects between schools in India, South Africa, and the UK, while students in Brazil tackled coding challenges to build their tech skills. Highlights included the Learning Sectors Live online event, which connected pupils directly with Formula 1 professionals, and competition winners gaining behind-the-scenes access at events like the Formula 1 Qatar Airways British Grand Prix 2025.
Key Achievements and Future Goals
Notable activities from the pilot year included a paddock tour at the Formula 1 MSC Cruises Grande Premio De São Paulo Grand Prix 2025, where students met local hero Gabriel Bortoleto, an Audi Revolut F1 driver, and a meeting with UK Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy in India. These experiences immersed students in the diverse career opportunities within the sport.
Stefano Domenicali, President & CEO of Formula 1, emphasized the programme's impact: "Inspiring the next generation is at the heart of our sport. We are proud to continue supporting Learning Sectors, which is already making a powerful impact globally and will reach nearly 250,000 students over the next two years."
Broader Educational Initiatives by Formula 1
Learning Sectors is part of Formula 1's broader commitment to youth education through various programmes:
- Formula 1 Engineering Scholarship: A fully funded scholarship for underrepresented students, supporting 50 individuals since 2021.
- STEM Racing: A global competition where students design and race miniature F1 cars, reaching 119,125 students in 2025.
- STEM Challenge Days: Hands-on engineering experiences in UK schools, engaging over 1,500 students since 2023.
- Mission 44: Collaboration with Sir Lewis Hamilton's charity, reaching over 350 young people through Grand Prix activities.
- Investing in Youth and Early Careers: Practical media skills training at the Media & Technology Centre in Biggin Hill.
- The Next Grand Prix: Workshops where students pitch fictional bids for new F1 locations.
Chris Elmore MP, Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office Minister, praised the initiative: "This programme fosters international connections and empowers students with crucial skills for STEM careers." Scott McDonald, Chief Executive of the British Council, added: "We're delighted to extend Learning Sectors, supporting more young people in developing knowledge and passion for science and technology."
The expansion of Learning Sectors underscores Formula 1's dedication to leveraging its global platform to drive positive change in education and community empowerment.
