Engineer nets award for his schools work

AN engineer who has worked with schools and colleges to get young people interested in science has won an award for his dedication.

Scott McNeill from Edinburgh, who runs his own engineering design consultancy, was named 'most dedicated' in the STEM Ambassadors Awards.

Judges were impressed with the way he brings science to life in a visual and interactive way, including getting different teams to design and build catapults and holding a competition to see which is the most effective by firing water balloons at teachers.

The awards, which highlight the achievements of individuals and companies who provide support to schools across Scotland, were held in the Capital yesterday and presented by Education Secretary Michael Russell.

He said: "The STEM subjects equip pupils with the skills and knowledge to be work ready in areas where we have economic demand for new jobs and new talent.

"The STEM Ambassadors programme is an excellent example of businesses working with schools and colleges to support a successful and sustainable workforce of the future."