Frequently asked questions
If your question is not answered here, please contact itsvc@dvla.gov.uk and a member of the team will be in touch.
What is the Code Challenge?
Code Challenge is a free coding competition for schools, colleges, clubs and community groups across Wales. Teams of young people are challenged to design and develop a digital solution based on one of the competition themes, showcasing their creativity, problem-solving and coding skills.
Who can take part?
The competition is open to schools, colleges, clubs and groups working with children and young people aged 18 years or under who are based in Wales.
Is there a cost to enter?
No. Entry to the competition is completely free.
When does the competition open?
The competition opens on 16 September 2026.
When does the competition close?
All entries must be submitted by 11:59pm on 30 April 2027. Entries received after this time will not be accepted.
How many teams can a school, college, club or group enter?
There is no limit to the number of teams that can be entered. Each team may also enter multiple themes, although only one submission per team per theme is permitted.
How many people can be in a team?
Teams must have a minimum of two and a maximum of six young people.
What age groups are there?
There are three age categories:
- 7 to 11 years (Primary)
- 11 to 16 years (Secondary)
- 16 to 18 years (Further Education/ College)
Which programming language should teams use?
- 7 to 11 years - Teams should design and build their entry using Scratch.
- 11 to 16 years - Teams may use any programming language they choose.
- 16 to 18 years - Teams may use any programming language they choose.
What are the competition themes?
A link to the themes can be found on the Code Challenge page.
What do we need to submit?
Each team must submit:
- A completed entry form
- Their coding project
- A short team video (maximum two minutes) explaining their project and how it was developed
Can we submit more than one project?
Yes. Teams may enter multiple themes, but can only submit one project per theme.
Do participants need parental consent?
Yes. Schools, colleges, clubs and groups must obtain parental or guardian consent before children participate and return the required consent documentation to DVLA.
How are projects judged?
All eligible entries will be independently judged by Code Club, who will select three finalists from each age category.
How many finalists will there be?
There will be:
- Three finalists in the 7 to 11 category
- Three finalists in the 11 to 16 category
- Three finalists in the 16 to 18 category
When will finalists be announced?
Finalists will be notified by 3:30pm on 14 May 2027.
Where is the final?
The final will be held at the Richard Ley Development Centre, Swansea.
Will support be available for travelling to the final?
Where finalists experience difficulties travelling to Swansea, DVLA will consider providing assistance where possible.
What happens at the final?
Finalists will present and showcase their projects to a panel of guest judges. Winners will be announced and prizes awarded during the event.
What prizes can be won?
Primary category will have:
- 1st Prize: £2,000 worth of IT equipment
- 2nd Prize: £1,500 worth of IT equipment
- 3rd Prize: £1,000 worth of IT equipment
Secondary category will have:
- 1st Prize: £2,000 worth of IT equipment
- 2nd Prize: £1,500 worth of IT equipment
- 3rd Prize: £1,000 worth of IT equipment
Further Education/ Sixth Form category will have:
- 1st Prize: £2,000 worth of IT equipment
Prizes are awarded to the school, college, club or group rather than individual team members.
Is there anything for teams that do not reach the final?
Yes. Schools, colleges, clubs and groups may also be eligible for the Prize Draw, subject to the criteria outlined in the competition rules.
Can prizes be exchanged for cash?
No. Cash alternatives are not available, and prizes cannot be exchanged or transferred.
Who owns the projects after submission?
By entering the competition, participants agree that submitted entries may be used, adapted or shared by individuals or organisations at no cost.
Where can I find the full competition rules?
The full Terms and Conditions and all competition updates will be available on the Code Challenge page.