Pupils from schools on Shetland have taken part in three days of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) events held at Lerwick College/UHI and funded by SSE Renewables and Viking Energy Wind Farm.
Around 41 pupils from the Brae, Anderson, Whalsay and Sandwick schools visited the campus last month, where they experienced a course delivered by Manchester-based 3D design company 3DW.
During the event the pupils used virtual reality software to design a wind farm and were able to visualize 360-degree designs of wind farms using a virtual reality headset.
They were also taught how to manage costs for their infrastructure and delivered presentations about their projects.
Andy Dennison who delivered the courses with his colleague Naomi McFarlane said: “It was great to see the pupils work with real enthusiasm across the 3 days. Whilst the focus was on developing their STEM skills, the programme incorporates teamwork, communication and presentation skills to help build confidence and develop employability skills which are transferable to any job in and industry”.
Developing the Young Workforce (DYP) Shetland’s school coordinator at Brae High School, Emily van Tonder, coordinated the school’s attendance. She said: “DYW is all about linking school pupils and employers together to offer work relevant education.
“Both SSE Renewables and the team from 3DW were great to work with, enthusiastic about engaging with our young people and teaching transferable skills for the workplace. It was a great event which both pupils and attending teachers enjoyed.”