Pupils from Waid Academy, Anstruther, have been given an insight into the development of the University of St Andrews’ Eden Campus. Six S2 pupils attended the renovation of the PSR Building, which involves the restoration and refurbishment of university facilities.

Go4SET challenge

The pupils have been sponsored us to take part in Go4SET (Science, Engineering, Technology), a 10-week engineering challenge to develop professional skills and raise awareness of the study and career options in STEM.

As part of their project, the team of students have designed a futuristic building which will withstand various aspects of climate change, such as extremes in temperature and rising sea levels.

During their visit to the St Andrews University site at Guardbridge, the students were given a presentation of the development by our Community Benefit Advisor, Suzanne Stevenson, who, along with Sustainability Manager Katie McGregor, has been advising students on ideas for their project ahead of an assessment and celebration day later this month.

When complete, the refurbished building will boast state-of-the-art office space, conference facilities, storage for library stock, staff gymnasium, a café for staff for University staff and public, and associated parking.

It is the University’s aim that up to 75% of the Eden Campus site will host a mix of science and technology-based industry and commerce activity underpinned by skills training services and mentoring programmes, access to high speed network for research and reliable upgraded power and renewable heating supplies.

Suzanne Stevenson said:

“It’s a pleasure to work with these young people to encourage engagement not only with STEM, but also with principles of sustainability and eco-friendly design and construction for the future.

“As a company, we are committed to encouraging young people to consider pursuing careers in construction, and providing a first-hand look at our ongoing projects is a fantastic way to showcase the wide and varied range of roles available in this industry.”

Natalie McIlroy, biology teacher and Go4SET lead at Waid Academy said:

“Go4SET encourages our second-year students to find out more about possible careers in STEM. GRAHAM has been fantastic in giving students expert advice and encouraging them to think outside the box and try new things.

“The opportunity to visit the PSR site has given the students an insight into possible careers in engineering which will inform them when they are making their subject choices.”

We are a member of the 5% Club, made up of companies committed to ensuring at least 5% of their workforce over the next five years is comprised of young people on structured learning schemes. It has supported 17 apprentices and trainees at the PSR site to date.

We are also aproud to be an IIP Platinum 2020 accredited company that employs over 300 people in Scotland, has managed over 150 apprenticeships and is signed up to the Scottish Business Pledge.