Scottish Pupil’s engineering invention bridges the gap for those with learning difficulties

She was recognised as one of the winners in her year group at the Scotland South West award ceremony, one of 25 regional UK events, in 2024.

Her creation is a headband which makes it a little easier to focus on school work with features such as noise cancelling, a smart camera, a desk projection plus a customisable look. Her idea was inspired by someone at her school who struggles in class, her idea would help eliminate noise within the classroom that might distract them and maximise their engagement and learning at times.

Each year Industry and University partners of Primary Engineer choose a pupil’s idea to build into a Prototype and to be revealed a year later at the regional awards ceremony.

Her original idea submitted to Primary Engineer's competition

Thales selected Sophia’s idea to bring to life during the 2024-2025 academic year. The Thales ProtoTeam said: “The Focus band is a unique prototype that is capable of enriching the learning experience. Whilst it focuses on bridging the gap for those with learning difficulties, this design idea is beneficial for all learners.

"Sophia was able to recognise the challenges others face in their learning experience and through collaboration we were able to create something that we feel is truly special! The experience we’ve had working with Primary Engineer and being able to finally unveil our design was unforgettable, we can’t wait to bring more amazing ideas to life.”

The finished prototype was officially unveiled on June 13 at the Scotland South West regional award ceremony hosted at Glasgow International Airport in Prestwick. Sophia’s family attended the event saying.

Nicolle, Sophia’s Mum, commented: “It was amazing to see the spark in Sophia’s eye when she created the idea then when she found out it would be built, she was super excited. The whole journey has been brilliant, the engineers really listened to everything she said and took time to understand why she had the idea. Sophia has loved every minute of it.”

The ProtoTeam from Thales with Sophia the ProtoPupil

Sophia said: “I was really excited when I was told it would be built, the best bit was seeing it in real life. I loved having the engineers in the school talking about it and doing fun activities”.

“If you were an Engineer, what would you do” is an annual, national competition free to enter for all 3-19 school pupils. Entries are open now for 2025-2026 and schools can register now at www.leadersaward.com

Primary Engineer Public Exhibitions and Award Ceremonies continue all over the UK through to July, with a total of 18 prototypes being unveiled. Read more about the prototypes: https://leadersaward.com/prototeams/