They were told of their success at a graduation ceremony at Strathclyde University on Wednesday 7 February.

The Industrial Cadets Bronze Award initiative is run by the Engineering Development Trust (EDT) and allows young leaders to work on projects in environmental awareness and sustainable practices.

The team from St Aidan’s were chosen by their peers to win the pupil’s choice award.

Dominic Kennedy, Depute Head Teacher of St Aidan’s HS, said: “We are very proud of the fantastic achievements of the S2 pupils involved in the project - Genevieve Brennan, Sam Brown, Niamh Clarke, Rosa Hodge, Kevin McGuigan and Jamie McShane. 

“The pupils have been working with Science Teacher, Mr Fionn O' Mara at lunchtimes designing 'A Theme Park for the Future'.

“They demonstrated fantastic teamwork and we were delighted when they received their Bronze Industrial Cadet Awards. 

“Everyone at St Aidan’s High was delighted that the team received a trophy as the Pupil Choice Award Winners. Very well done to Mr O’Mara and his team of pupils on their fantastic achievements.”

The programme supports students in developing key skills for learning, life and work and inform their future career paths and the exciting STEM opportunities available to them.

Councillor Angela Campbell, Convener of Education, Children and Families, said: “I’d like to congratulate all the pupils who took part in this excellent programme which provides a practical insight into science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

“The graduation ceremony was a wonderful occasion, which celebrated and showcased the students' impressive projects and highlighting their commitment to shaping a more sustainable future.”

The programme is sponsored by waste and recycling firm Viridor.

Liam Cantwell, Community Benefits Officer with Viridor, explained: “As a company deeply committed to sustainability and youth development, Viridor is privileged to support this unique programme.

“The Industrial Cadets involved high school students aged 11-13 from across North Lanarkshire, East Dunbartonshire, East Renfrewshire, Renfrewshire, and North Ayrshire.

“Over twelve weeks, these inspiring young individuals have dedicated approximately 25 hours to exploring topics aligned with the Curriculum for Excellence, Career Education Standard, Skills 4.0 model, and the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals.”

Each team produces a written report, a model or poster and gives a presentation, while each pupil completes a student workbook.

At the end of the scheme, students graduate as Bronze-level Industrial Cadets, a nationally recognised award that students can use as evidence of their experience and take forward to complement their future applications and career journeys.