The Alpha is nostalgic, but it is very, very short. It comes from the long ago era before flameproof wadding when "parachute protectors" were used. Therefore, the very short body tube was not an issue. in our modern era od flameproof wadding, the Alpha body tube is just annoyingly short. Yes, it still works, but you must teach beginners how to fold the parachute very carefully so that it will fit in the tiny length of tube available after installing the proper amount of wadding and still easily open up.
Alpha III is identical.
Make & Take is better as the tube is slightly longer than the Alpha III body tube.
it is a good historical model and it does work, but there are many better beginner models - so I discourage youth group leaders from selecting that model simply because they fondly remember building one with the grandfather. If you want an easy model with tons of room, try the Generic E2X.
There are many other models to select which use a BT=50 and with balsa fins to glue on, just like an Alpha. Or, you can just move up to a BT-55 sized model for beginners and make it very easy to install the shock cord mount and still have plenty of room for wadding and an easily folded parachute.
https://www.estesrockets.com/rockets/kits?cat=112&limit=25
If you want a short rocket, get a short and fat rocket like a Baby Bertha. Or , better yet, skip the short part and get a Big Bertha! That will satisfy the nostalgia urge and work great.