The Harry and Margaret Kroto Prize For the Innovative Use of Technology in Learning 2026
Are you aged 11-18 and passionate about science, technology, engineering or maths?
Can you explain a topic you love in a clear, creative and engaging way?
Create a short video (up to 4 minutes) bringing a STEM idea to life - and you could win up to £300.
About the prize
The Harry and Margaret Kroto Prize celebrates the legacy of Professor Sir Harry Kroto, Nobel Prize-winning scientist, University of Sheffield chemistry alumnus, and champion of creative science education.
Sir Harry believed that science should be exciting, accessible and shared widely. Although he passed away in 2016, his passion for inspiring young people to explore and communicate scientific ideas continues through initiatives such as this prize, which invites students to present STEM ideas in ways that spark curiosity and understanding.
What you need to do
Produce a video (maximum 4 minutes) on any STEM topic of your choice.
We are looking for entries that:
- Explain ideas clearly and accurately
- Present information in an engaging and creative way
- Capture the audience’s interest
- Inspire curiosity about a STEM subject
Your video could include:
- Direct-to-camera explanation
- Demonstrations
- Animation or graphics
- Experiments
- Visual storytelling
The format is up to you, what matters most is how effectively you communicate your idea.
Prize
1st Prize: £300
2nd Prize: £200
3rd Prize: £100
(Prizes may be awarded in vouchers and are shared 50/50 between the student(s) and the school/college.)
Entry details
- Only one entry per school
- Maximum length of video: 4 minutes
- The video needs to be submitted by the school and hosted on an accessible platform (e.g. YouTube) and linked from the school website.
- Closing date for entries is Monday 29th June 2026
Register your interest
Thinking of submitting an entry? Schools and colleges are invited to register their interest in the 2026 competition.
By registering, you will receive updates, guidance and reminders about key dates to help you plan your entry. Registering does not commit your school to submitting an entry.
Judging criteria
Entries will be assessed by a panel of academics and education specialists based on:
- Academic content
- Communication and presentation
- Creativity
- Ability to inspire interest in learning
Competition entry form
Entries for the 2026 competition are now open. The deadline for submissions is Monday 29 June 2026.
Submit your competition entry here
Winners will be announced and prizes awarded during the week commencing 13 July 2026.
Previous winners
Need some inspiration? Explore our library of previous winning videos to see how students have brought STEM ideas to life.