The UK’s intelligence, security and cyber agency – GCHQ – released their annual Christmas Challenge 2025 with puzzles designed by schoolchildren and spies.

Director GCHQ, Anne Keast-Butler, said:  

“Puzzles are at the heart of GCHQ’s work to keep the country safe from hostile states, terrorists and criminals; challenging our teams to think creatively and analytically every day.  

“I’m delighted that this year’s Christmas Challenge combines puzzles created by our own experts with brilliant designs from schoolchildren across the country.

“It was a pleasure to judge the competition alongside Colin, GCHQ’s Chief Puzzler. The winning designs beautifully captured what they thought GCHQ looks like on Christmas Day and incorporated some clever codes and ciphers.

“I hope this Challenge inspires the next generation to explore STEM subjects and consider the rewarding careers available in cybersecurity and intelligence. Who knows – some of these talented schoolchildren might be solving our own puzzles in the future.“

Do you think you can crack them? Have a look here https://www.gchq.gov.uk/files/gchq%20christmas%20challenge%202025.pdf

If you think you’ve cracked the code, drop into the Maths office to impress them with your superspy abilities!