More than 200 pupils from across the north met in Inverness yesterday to show off their engineering and science skills.
Children at 19 primary and secondary schools from the Highlands, islands and Moray took part in the annual celebration of engineering and science, which aims to capture the imagination of young people and encourage them to consider a career in these areas.
The event, organised by the Scottish Council of Development and Industry (SCDI), was also attended by some of the north’s biggest employers in industries such as life sciences, construction and oil and gas.
The pupils which took part in the day at Eden Court were all members of some of the 120 science clubs set up in schools across the north.
As part of the event they showcased projects they had been working on in recent months in fields like food science, energy and marine biology.
Jane Martin, programme director for SCDI’s young engineers and science clubs, said: “The aim of young engineers and science clubs is to show young people that science and technology are not only fun but can lead to a great career.
“The standard and quality of the projects which are showcased are fantastic, proving that youngsters in the region have the creativity and skills required to pursue careers in science and engineering and really make a difference to Scotland’s economy.”
One of the companies involved in the event was LifeScan Scotland, owned by Johnson and Johnson.
Robert Sutherland, from the corporate social responsibility team at LifeScan, said: “Being part of events like this offers benefits for everyone involved.
“It gives the kids a chance to show what they have learned by being members of these clubs, and from a business perspective it gives us the chance to foster and encourage talented young people.
“If we can highlight the science, technology, engineering and mathematics subjects now, there is more chance of them considering careers in those sectors later in life.”
Scott Burns Smith, head of marketing at engineering recruitment firm Orion Group, said: “We’re great believers in investing in the local community and it’s important to help schemes like this, where local kids get the chance to learn exciting new skills and enjoy themselves while they’re at it.”
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