PUPILS at Kingsland Primary put their engineering skills to the test at the finals of a challenge event in Glasgow.

The school was one of 50 to take part in the ‘Don’t Waste a Drop’ challenge – organised to encourage more youngsters into science, technology, engineering or maths (STEM) courses.

The event, which was set up by the Young Engineers and Science Clubs Scotland (YESC) and national water retailer Wave, saw the children take part in a number of challenges, including designing and building a pump and pipeline that can transfer water without wasting a drop.

A number of industry experts were on hand throughout the day at the Glasgow Science Centre to give advice to the pupils.

The Peebles pupils were pipped to the title by Sgoil Dhalabroig primary school (South Uist) and Robert Gordon’s College secondary school (Aberdeen).

Tony March, from Wave, said: “Congratulations to the pupils from Kingsland Primary for undertaking our water related STEM challenge.

“This event has been a great opportunity to show these talented young people the wide variety of careers open to those with STEM qualifications and get them excited about their future job prospects.

“We’re proud to have supported this challenge and to highlight not only the difficulties faced by water suppliers in keeping water flowing 24 hours a day, seven days a week, but also to inspire the next generation of STEM recruits, highlighting the variety of careers open to those with STEM qualifications.

“Particularly within the water industry, we are continually looking for people with a STEM background as it is these people who are integral in our day-to-day operations. This is why Wave is committed to working with partners to help inform young people of the many different STEM career paths they can follow.”

Rebecca MacLennan, YESC’s programme director, added: “The theme of water conservation provides a topical context for pupils in schools across Scotland to develop their interest in science and engineering.

“Throughout the challenge they have developed valuable skills for learning, life and work while gaining a fantastic insight into the diverse range of career opportunities within Wave and the sector.”