Shetland schools showcase STEM innovation at prize event

Pupils from schools across Shetland joined forces to showcase their creativity, problem-solving skills, and learning as part of Stemovators, an award-winning STEM outreach programme.

Throughout the year, students have developed their expertise in science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM), culminating in a celebration event to compete with other schools. By providing free resource kits and real-world challenges, Stemovators empowers young people to think critically, develop practical skills, and explore exciting career opportunities in STEM.

Young people and teachers gathered at the Shetland Museum to exhibit their projects for the chance to win a prize. Industry volunteers and partners provided challenges which gave the young people an insight of the different career paths available in the STEM sector. One of the standout STEM projects tested at the event was Subsea Solutions: Powering Tomorrow, where teams designed and built cable-laying vehicles to simulate how renewable energy generated on Shetland could be transmitted to the mainland—giving young people hands-on insight into real-world energy infrastructure.

The event was funded in partnership with Morgan Sindall Infrastructure, Peterson Energy Logistics Ltd and SSEN Transmission.

Thomas Wild, Head of Stemovators said: “The projects, in partnership with our industry funders, inspire pupils and helps them develop valuable skills and knowledge whilst encouraging uptake in STEM subjects and careers. The celebration event is a culmination of the project and gives an opportunity where young people can showcase their innovation and hard work whilst learning more about different career and education pathways.”

Hannah Johnson, Ollaberry Primary School, highlighted: “Our pupils look forward to this event every year. Showcasing their learning to the judges really helps pupils to build their confidence and it’s great to see how proud they are of all their hard work. The event is so well organised and a fantastic opportunity for pupils to learn about the various STEM careers that are available to them in Shetland and further afield.”

Peter Ettrick, GREMISTA Project Director, Morgan Sindall Infrastructure, said: “It’s fantastic to be part of an initiative that sparks curiosity and creativity in young minds about the energy sector. Nurturing essential STEM skills and inspiring the next generation to explore green careers is an essential part of our commitment to enhance communities as part of our projects.”

James Johnson, Business Manager, Peterson Energy Logistics, added: “As a local employer committed to developing young talent, this is a great opportunity to celebrate the role of STEM and the impact it has on the local community and economy.”

Rhonda Miller, Societal Lead at TotalEnergies, said: “We are proud to have sponsored the Climate Smarter Programme within Shetland’s schools. It is a great tool for inspiring young people to think creatively about how they can become more sustainable in their everyday lives.”

Thea Groat, Community Liaison Manager (Shetland Projects), SEEN Transmission, commented: “We’re proud to support the delivery of the Shetland Celebration of STEM Event for a third year now. It’s a great opportunity to connect with pupils from all over Shetland and help spark their interest in the many exciting pathways that STEM can offer young people.”

The Climate Smarter project focuses on sustainable materials, energy storage and ‘smart’ technologies. This enables schools to create their entry for the celebration competition of a tabletop model of their future eco-school.

Prize winners:

• Subsea Solutions Winner: Happyhansel Primary
• STEM Challenge Winner: Mid Yell Junior High School
• STEM Challenge Runner-up: Happyhansel Primary
• Climate Smarter Winner: Sound Primary
• Climate Smarter Runner-up: Whalsay Primary
• Regional Winner: Bell’s Brae Primar