BUDDING engineers from Benarty Primary School put their skills to the test at the finals of a national competition.

The children were taking part in the Celebration of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) event which took place at Glasgow Science Centre and was organised by the Young Engineers and Science Clubs Scotland (YESC).

They participated in a range of challenges throughout the day including 'Don't Waste a Drop', where teams were tasked with designing and building a pump and pipeline that can transfer water without wasting any.

Tony March, public sector manager from Wave, who helped create the task, said the event had been a great opportunity to show the youngsters the variety of careers open to those with STEM qualifications.

“Congratulations to the pupils from Benarty Primary for undertaking our water-related STEM challenge," he said. “We’re proud to have supported this challenge and to highlight not only the difficulties faced by water suppliers in keeping water flowing 24 hours a day, seven days a week but also to inspire the next generation of STEM recruits, highlighting the variety of careers open to those with STEM qualifications.

“Particularly within the water industry, we are continually looking for people with a STEM background as it is these people who are integral in our day-to-day operations. This is why Wave is committed to working with partners such as SCDI to help inform young people of the many different STEM career paths they can follow.”

Rebecca MacLennan, YESC’s programme director, added: "Water leakage is an important issue for households, businesses and the environment. The theme of water conservation provides a topical context for pupils in schools across Scotland to develop their interest in science and engineering.

"Throughout the challenge, they have developed valuable skills for learning, life and work while gaining a fantastic insight into the diverse range of career opportunities within Wave and the sector.”