Inspiring the Next Generation: STEM Sessions at Preston Lodge High School
Last week, Stakeholder Engagement Manager for Berwick Bank, Ciara Jamieson, Eilidh MacLeod Engineering Manager, and Pauline Allison, Stakeholder Engagement Manager for Seagreen Offshore Wind Farm, visited Preston Lodge High School in East Lothian to engage with around 180 enthusiastic S1 students in a series of hands-on STEM sessions.
The event was a huge success, sparking curiosity and excitement about the offshore wind industry and all things STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) amongst the students.
The sessions kicked off with an interactive presentation including information about the causes and impacts of climate change, renewable technologies and SSE Renewables’ projects Seagreen 1A and Berwick Bank which are both relatively local to the school and set to have landfalls within the East Lothian area.
The event was designed to be both educational and fun and involved the students getting up and moving around the room and working in teams to create huge colourful posters showcasing some of their essential skills and learnings including their creativity, teamwork and listening abilities.
Pauline Allison, Stakeholder Engagement Manager said:
“To have the opportunity to get out and connect and hopefully inspire the next generation is a real privilege. I think the exposure to STEM and to the vast array of opportunities within the renewables industry is vital to help build awareness and enthusiasm for an industry that is vital for our future and the economy.”
“A huge thanks to the teachers and staff at Preston Lodge High School for their warm welcome and for fostering an environment where students can thrive. Thanks also to the great team at Developing Young Workforce for making the connections.”
Craig Dorward, Physics Science Teacher at Preston Lodge said:
"I was thoroughly impressed with the SSER event on renewable energy at our school. The program was exceptionally well-prepared, offering our pupils in-depth knowledge about wind power at an appropriate level. Beyond the technical aspects, the event also fostered essential interpersonal and teamwork skills, providing an inclusive and enriching learning experience."