Inspiring STEM education for Grantown's young people

Over 230 pupils in the Highland community of Grantown-on-Spey have gained unique insights into the world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) thanks to an industry and public sector collaboration.

A tie-up between European renewable energy business Vattenfall and the Highland based Science Skills Academy saw Grantown’s YMCA community centre transformed into a Pop-Up Newton Room, offering students in-depth activities in robotics, mathematics, and space.

The five-week programme last term delivered more than 945 hours of STEM education to young people from Grantown Grammar, Deshar Primary, Abernethy Primary, Grantown Primary, and Carrbridge Primary.
The post-event survey highlights the programme's impact: 80% of pupils said the way they were taught was exciting and interesting; 74% indicated a greater awareness of STEM careers; and 65% expressed increased interest in STEM subjects at school.

The Pop-Up Newton Room concept, created in Norway, is now part of an international network spanning 45 Newton Rooms across 14 countries. The project in the Highlands is multi-partnered, delivered by Highlands and Islands Enterprise and established with funding from the Inverness and Highland City-Region deal.

To cement its role in developing a workforce for the future, SSA has forged a range of industry links. Vattenfall made it possible to bring the Pop-Up to Grantown, offering local students the chance to explore STEM skills in its unique out of classroom environment.

The Vattenfall programme also included an online careers Q&A event reaching more than 2,000 students nationwide. Pupils were given the opportunity to meet Vattenfall’s Offshore Wind Project Manager, Louise Housecroft to talk about future renewable energy opportunities.

Alison Daugherty, Senior Project Manager at Vattenfall, said: “This collaboration has allowed Vattenfall to connect directly with the young people we hope will shape our future workforce. We are proud to be part of a programme that not only informs students but also inspires them about the possibilities that STEM careers offer.”

Emma Plato, STEM engagement manager for SSA, said: “The Pop-Up Newton Room brings our modules into the heart of rural communities and helps us reach young people across the whole region. The direct support of industry in delivering our full range of STEM learning programmes is invaluable – it creates pathways which encourage young people to explore and embrace STEM careers.”

SSA has worked with 98% of local schools in the Highland region over the past five years. As well as the roving Pop-Up, there are four permanent Newton Rooms in Thurso, Dingwall, Inverness, and Fort William. Each room has a specialist STEM Engagement Officer (SEO) working in the local community expert in modern theories of learning.

Industry partners interested in being involved can find out more here.