The RAC Imagine Program™ Futures Challenge is a term long project based learning experience that features a hackathon style excursion followed by virtual weekly masterclasses. Students will explore and design their own unique and innovative solutions to the real-life challenges faced by the WA community.

About the program

Over the past 30 years our cities have changed dramatically. With an increase in technology access, diversity, and global connectivity, our cities have continued to grow and evolve with us over the past 30 years. As our population continues to rise, the transport industry is rapidly evolving with the integration of alternative fuels and cutting-edge technologies.

The RAC Imagine Program™ Futures Challenge will see students work in teams to create innovative community-based initiatives that focus on how we move around. Their mission will be to enhance their local communities with innovative transportation components, aiming to create a safer, more sustainable and connected forward-thinking city. The Futures Challenge is designed and delivered by BOP Industries in partnership with RAC.

Want to know more? Check out the highlights from our very first RAC Imagine Program™ Futures Challenge.

Who can register

  • Year 5 - 6 students only
  • Each school can register 4 - 10 students (students will work in groups of 4 - 6)

Topics covered

  • Smart cities, public spaces and neighbourhood design
  • Road safety, autonomous vehicles and active transport
  • Sustainability, renewable energy and vehicle emissions

Students will develop these skills

  • Critical thinking
  • Pitching and presentation
  • Design thinking
  • Collaboration
  • Personal and social capability
  • Information and communication capability
  • Ethical understanding

Project submission 

Students will work in groups of 4 - 6 students to develop their ideas and designs over the course of the program. Schools should ensure that students have suitable time and support to complete their project and pitch videos for submission by the due date at the end of term 3. 

Program schedule 2024

Hackathon excursion day - Term 3, week 1

  • Date: Thursday 18 July 2024
  • Times: 9:00am - 2:30pm approx.
  • Where: WA Museum Boola Bardip, Perth Cultural Centre, Perth WA. 

Virtual masterclasses - Term 3, weeks 2 - 8

  • Live and online
  • One-hour, weekly session after school on Wednesdays
  • Explore more topics with activities and resources
  • Q&A and allocated working time at the end of each session

Submission - Term 3, weeks 8 - 10

Students will be working towards recording and submitting a 3 to 5-minute pitch video that showcases their ideas and solutions.

Judging process

Ideas and final project submissions will be reviewed by RAC and industry experts.

Awards and celebration event - Term 4, Week 3

Participants and parents will be invited to attend a celebration and awards breakfast where student submissions will be showcased and acknowledged.

For more information contact schooleducation@rac.com.au.