Pupils from seven local secondary schools will take part in a national science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) competition thanks to an award from Glasgow Airport’s FlightPath Fund.
The project, run by the Engineering Development Trust (EDT), sees teams of six pupils participate in the 10-week regional Go4SET program. During this time, they will work with a company mentor to produce a report, model and a five-minute presentation on one of three STEM-related projects focusing on sustainability and the environment – Fit for the Future, Smart Surroundings and Future Proof or Designing Building for Climate Change.
As part of the project, the pupils will also take part in a site visit to their mentor’s company to see STEM application in the workplace.
Go4SET gives the pupils the opportunity to develop skills, inform subject choice and change perceptions about STEM by raising awareness of how studying these subjects can lead to a rewarding career.
The pupils taking part in the Go4SET program will gain an SQA Steps to Work Award SCQF Level 4 and a Bronze Industrial Cadet Award.
Support from the airport’s FlightPath Fund in the form of a £7000 award (US$9,000) has ensured that 42 pupils from secondary schools in Renfrewshire, Glasgow, and East and West Dunbartonshire participate in Go4SET.
Archie Hunter, chair of the FlightPath Fund, said, “Our science, engineering and technology sectors face significant challenges in terms of skills and people shortages. STEM sector-related employment in Scotland is set to grow by 4% by 2027, so projects such as Go4SET are absolutely vital in ensuring these challenges can be met.”
In 2019, the FlightPath Fund awarded over £110,000 (US$141,780) to more than 70 local clubs, community groups and charities. This amount was also boosted by a record £20,000 (US$25,766) donated by Glasgow Airport passengers via six currency collection globes based in the terminal.