GCHQ Christmas Challenge 2026

Registration is now open for this year’s Christmas Challenge, a series of festive brainteasers and puzzles designed by GCHQ expert codebreakers for 11-18 year olds. The challenge encourages teamwork and problem solving, as well as showcasing some of the STEM skills young people might need to become a spy.  

GCHQ is one of the three UK Intelligence and Security Agencies, along with MI5 and the Secret Intelligence Service (MI6). GCHQ protects the UK and its citizens from individuals, groups and countries who wish to do us harm, or damage us financially. 

School teachers and home educators can register online now for early access to the challenge resources, to start planning for Challenge Day on 10 December. On the day, those taking part will be encouraged to share their progress on social media. 

To register, visit GCHQ's website.