Inspirational support for powering the future, now!

Powering Futures Schools Challenge Programme in North Argyll and Stirling, supported by GreenPower

During March a 30-week programme for young people, aimed at engendering skills to tackle real-world problems set by businesses, culminated in the final presentations for hundreds of young people across the country.

In Oban, local wind farm operator and developer GreenPower, which sponsors the Powering Futures Schools Challenge programme, sat on the judging panel for students from Oban and Tobermory High Schools. Nick Fennell and Laura Stasyte attended the event, with fellow judges from organisations including Vattenfall, NatureScot and Access Plus.

In Stirling, one of GreenPower’s youngest staff members Miles Latham judged at one of the largest presentation days, with 26 groups presenting from St Modan’s High School, Alloa Academy, Stirling High School and Balfron High School. Miles was joined by judges from Zero Waste Scotland, Newsquest, BAM, Briggs Equipment, Robertson, PwC, Stenhousemuir FC and Transport Scotland.

Over 1000 students across Scotland have been involved in the initiative. There were several industry-set challenges including:
– Improving sustainable transport in your local area
– Help tackling the homelessness crisis in Scotland
– How to encourage young people to spend more time in the outdoors

Powering Futures runs the Schools Challenge Programme which is a project-based, interdisciplinary learning course. This works towards a SCQF Level 6 qualification and is active in over 100 schools across Scotland. GreenPower has been involved across the past two years, providing input into classroom sessions with pupils, including advice leading up to their final assessments.

The final presentation events represent the culmination of the students’ hard work over the past few months, presenting their solutions to their teachers, peers and a panel of judges from local businesses.

Miles Latham, GreenPower Junior Renewables Analyst said: ‘It was a pleasure to judge the Powering Futures presentations and witness the next generation showcasing their creativity and problem-solving skills. Congratulations to all the students who have made it this far in the 30-week program! It was inspiring to see them openly reflect on the skills they’ve developed and the challenges they’ve overcome along the way. The future is certainly in good hands.’

Laura Stasyte, GreenPower HR Manager said: “The Schools Challenge is a fantastic initiative, and it was truly inspiring to see the passion and dedication these young people brought to their projects. Their work highlights not only their enthusiasm for sustainability but also their potential as the next generation of sustainability leaders.”

Andrew Barnes, Powering Futures Partner Relations Manager said: “We’re thrilled to be working with GreenPower in bridging the gap between education and the future opportunities for the next generation. The involvement of GreenPower in supporting the programme will make a big impact on Scotland’s most valuable economic resource, its people.”