TechFest is delighted to announce that it has been awarded £44,140 from SSEN Transmission’s Eastern Green Link 2 Peterhead Local Fund to deliver an exciting programme of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) activities for young people and families across Peterhead and the surrounding communities.
The two-year project will bring high-quality, hands-on STEM learning directly into primary schools, Peterhead Academy and local community venues, with an estimated 3,772 direct engagements throughout the programme.
Working across the five community council areas of Peterhead, Boddam, Cruden, Buchan East and Longside & District, the project will provide opportunities for young people from early years through to secondary education to explore STEM subjects, develop valuable skills and discover potential future careers.
The primary school programme will see TechFest deliver curriculum-linked workshops across 13 local primary schools, including activities exploring energy, electromagnetism and engineering. Peterhead Academy will also benefit from annual project days, giving pupils the opportunity to tackle real-world challenges through practical engineering and problem-solving activities.
Alongside school delivery, TechFest will host a series of free family STEM events in local parks, libraries and community venues. These activities will make science and technology accessible to families, encouraging children to explore STEM beyond the classroom and continue their learning at home.
Martha Gavan, Managing Director at TechFest, said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive this support from SSEN Transmission’s Eastern Green Link 2 Peterhead Local Fund. This funding will allow TechFest to bring exciting, hands-on STEM experiences directly to schools and communities across Peterhead and the surrounding area, reaching thousands of young people and families over the next two years.
“With Peterhead playing such an important role in Scotland’s energy future, it’s vital that local young people have opportunities to explore STEM, develop their skills and discover the exciting careers available to them. We’re incredibly grateful for this investment, which will help us inspire the next generation while making STEM learning accessible to everyone.”
The project will also create opportunities to strengthen connections between education and industry. Where possible, local volunteers from the energy and engineering sectors will support secondary school activities, helping pupils understand the range of career opportunities available within industries shaping the region's future. TechFest will also work alongside Developing the Young Workforce North East and Aberdeen Science Centre to complement existing provision and create pathways for continued STEM engagement.
By delivering activities directly within schools and community venues, the project aims to remove barriers such as cost and travel, ensuring that young people and families can access high-quality STEM experiences regardless of their location or circumstances.
The programme will build lasting relationships with local schools, community organisations and industry partners, while providing teachers and families with resources and opportunities to continue STEM learning beyond the funded activities.
Through this investment, TechFest hopes to leave a lasting educational legacy across Peterhead and the surrounding communities, inspiring curiosity, building confidence and helping equip the next generation with the skills to contribute to Scotland's future.