A guest invitation to SPE Offshore Europe 2023 enhanced and enriched Lochside Academy pupils' STEM learning.
A small group of senior pupils from Lochside Academy attended SPE Offshore Europe 2023 as invited guests of bp Aberdeen Hydrogen Energy Ltd (bpAHEL). During their visit, the pupils experienced a major international exhibition and participated in various activities, including a 'show and tell' with the Aberdeen Hydrogen Hub project team and the opportunity to use equipment from a working example of an electrical recharging station. They also visited the Energy Transition Zone theatre, where they heard a green hydrogen project panel discussion and presentations from industry professionals, including Oliver Taylor, CEO of bpAHEL.
The pupils gained an insight into the growing impact of renewable energy and the increase in electrification, wind and solar power - and an understanding of how this will translate into a magnitude of future career opportunities.
The opportunity to engage with industry professionals directly - and to feedback their highlights as a group over lunch - allowed the young people to develop their communication and networking skills.
“This was a brilliant opportunity that the pupils thoroughly enjoyed. There was a big increase in interest from the students in applying for jobs/apprenticeships with bp and they all expressed that the day provided much more than they thought it would."
Small group discussions with industry experts helped to prepare S6 pupils for their next steps.
A series of hospitality-themed activities encouraged S2 pupils from St Machar Academy to consider careers in the industry.
A two-stage competition for S2 pupils throughout the region, designed to raise the profile of careers in the construction industry.
