The partnership between Parklands College and MaxIQ Space has been instrumental in advancing our learners’ engagement with authentic, cutting-edge STEM and space science education. Through the expertise and mentorship of Ms. Judi Sandrock and Mr. Bjarke Gotfredsen, our learners have been given the rare opportunity to participate in projects that reach well beyond the classroom; from high-altitude balloon missions to the development of experiments destined for the International Space Station (ISS).

MaxIQ Space, is a South African-based organisation with a strong international footprint, specialises in space systems engineering education, data-driven research, and STEM capacity-building. The company empowers students to learn through experience by giving them access to real hardware, flight opportunities, and mission data. Their programmes are carefully structured to align with global educational standards while nurturing curiosity, teamwork and innovation.

At Parklands College, MaxIQ Space has been a cornerstone partner in the growth of our STAR Programme, providing not only technical training but also invaluable mentorship. Under the guidance of Judi Sandrock and Bjarke Gotfredsen, our learners have built and flown payloads on ASRI rockets reaching altitudes of over 12 km and are now preparing to send an experiment to the ISS in 2026. Their mentorship has helped learners understand the complete mission cycle, from design and testing to data analysis and presentation, instilling both scientific rigour and professional discipline.

Beyond Parklands College, MaxIQ Space continues to work with schools and educational institutions across Africa and the United States, including partnerships with NASA-affiliated organisations and American schools such as Trinity Preparatory School in Florida. These collaborations aim to create a global network of student scientists and engineers, encouraging young people to exchange ideas, analyse shared data, and collaborate on real-world space missions.

The continued collaboration with Judi Sandrock and Bjarke Gotfredsen has not only strengthened the academic depth of our programmes but has also inspired a new generation of learners to see themselves as active contributors to the future of space exploration and technology. Their passion, technical expertise, and educational vision have helped make the dream of space education in South African classrooms a tangible and inspiring reality.