Thank you to our wonderful sponsors and supporters for making this project happen!
Students, register your interest for STEM Next 2024 competition today.
This essay competition has no subject pre-requisites and is not purely STEM based. Students of various interests are more than welcome to take part! This is a fantastic opportunity for you to learn transferable skills that you can utilize in your future studies and careers, e.g. research, critical analysis, communication.
There are 3 potential essay categories to choose and within each category there are a diverse range of potential essay questions, with something to suit every interest! This is a solo project that requires independent research and writing. However, we encourage that participants get feedback from their peers or teachers before the final submission.
There are three essay categories available:
1) Energy In Action
2) Life Sciences & Medicine
3) Chemistry & Biological Sciences
More information about available essay topics will be provided in due course.
Taking part in STEM Next competition is a brilliant opportunity for students to add additional achievements to their UCAS application. In addition, participating students are eligible for CREST Awards. Additional prizes for 2024 competition to be confirmed.
TECHFEST’S STEM NEXT ESSAY COMPETITION IMPORTANT DATES
Deadline to register interest – TBC
Project launch – TBC
Deadline for essay submission – 30/09/24
(don’t forget to submit the cover sheet as well!)
Winning essays announced – November 2024
Interested in volunteering for STEM Next?
If you work, have worked in any of the following industries or have great knowledge about any of the following areas: Energy, Life Sciences, Medicine, Chemistry or Biological Sciences industries, and would like to be interviewed by a student for their essay about the topics around these industries, please click here to register (this is an interest form only. We will contact you at a later stage and ask you to fill out the STEM Next official Sign-Up form).
Interested in supporting STEM Next?
Sponsorship provides an excellent opportunity to invest in the future of our local community, directly benefiting hundreds of young people throughout the area and beyond.
Please click here for information on how you can sponsor this project.
If you have any questions about STEM Next, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Watch STEM Next 2023 Final Celebration
Watch student testimonials from previous competitions to learn more about STEM Next:
A massive thank you to project sponsors and supporters. Sponsor grid for 2024 coming soon.
Every child in Scotland should have the chance to experience the fun and excitement of STEM, whilst building knowledge and skills essential for life and work in the future.
Developing their STEM understanding and capabilities allows young people to become confident in using Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics in their everyday lives, as well as in whatever career they choose to pursue. TechFest aims to provide opportunities and experiences for children and young people to build on and improve these vital skills.
Why is STEM important?
Why is STEM knowledge so crucial for young peoples' learning? An understanding of STEM allows children (and adults!) to develop and grow as individuals and in society.
STEM encourages curiosity and creates an eagerness to learn and understand the universe around us. By possessing a range of STEM skills, we can interact with and combat key issues in society such as global warming. STEM stimulates creativity, innovation, analysis, invention and productivity and can lead to exciting and rewarding career opportunities in the future.
See https://www.stem.org.uk/ for more information on STEM
Due to the increased demand from schools and the success of events in the past, TechFest now offers all year round events for secondary school pupils.
These events involve speakers from industry and research travelling to secondary schools and delivering talks and workshops applicable to the Curriculum for Excellence. TechFest aims to inspire pupils and enhance their knowledge and interest in topical science subjects.
Below are the two options that you might consider that TechFest can deliver at your school.
Crystal Maze
Teams will be required to work their way around puzzle rooms solving mathematical problems in a race against time! Each challenge will relate to a different Maths theme and will require teamwork and lateral thinking.
Climate Challenge
Designed and delivered by TechFest this workshop aims to give students the confidence to present to their peers as well as engaging with the science behind Climate Change and what we can all do to make a difference. Students will also work to communicate what Industry is doing to meet the challenges of our future.
For more information, contact the Outreach Programme team by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
The Royal Institution Mathematics Masterclasses gives S2 pupils an insight into how Mathematics can be applied and utilised outside of the classroom.
The Aberdeen Maths Masterclasses series has been running in Aberdeen for over 12 years and the Masterclasses have become very popular with students and teachers in this time. The main focus of the series is the application of Mathematics to real life problems, a message which can often get lost in the school environment.
We are delighted to be bringing reinstate this fabulous series back face-to-face in Aberdeen in 2023 thanks to kind sponsorship from Serica Energy.
Nominations have now closed for this series of Masterclasses.
We are delighted to have a varied programme for pupils who have been awarded a space – full programme can be seen here.
Pupils were nominated through Mathematics teachers and 45 pupils from 13 schools across Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire completed the 2022-2023 series of classes.
The presenters gave engaging and interactive sessions on a variety of Mathematical topics, and included codes and ciphers, measuring big numbers in space, million dollar equations, fractals and probability.
Pupils received their Mathematics Masterclass certificates, and Crest Discovery awards from representatives from Serica Energy and the Royal Institution.
“My favourite part of the series was learning mathematical secrets and being able to socialise and have fun while learning at the same time” Masterclass pupil 2022-2023
We hope to open nominations for the 2023- 2024 series in August 2023; interested pupils who will be in S2 at this point should speak to their Maths teacher.
If you would like further information about any aspect of the series, please contact Yashka Smith at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Photo credits: Michal Wachucik/ABERMEDIA LTD
At TechFest, we would normally be busy preparing for our Heroes of Tomorrow event, sponsored by Equinor. Although the event is not going ahead this month, we’ve been reflecting on how it started and how it progressed since our first launch in 2015!
CHECK IT OUT!
Heroes of Tomorrow is an event that aims to spark young people’s interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and provide insight into future career paths within the oil, gas and energy industries.
We are excited to be organising another run of our very popular Heroes of Tomorrow event. This years Heroes of Tomorrow event was a huge success with S1 & S2 pupils being introduced to many exciting facets of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
Watch Equinor's video of the event:
Heroes of Tomorrow 2020 was an enormous success with approximately 400 S1 and S2 pupils getting a chance to learn more about career prospects in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics industries.
Here are some of the highlights of the talks, workshops and shows:
''Equinor seeks to inspire young peoples' interests in STEM subjects, the energy industry and the important role we play in its transformation through our use of innovation and digital technologies. Supporting the next generation of scientists and engineers is key to providing energy in a sustainable way. We are proud to inspire the young people of today [...] to improve the world in which we live.'' - Arne Gurtner, Equinor's senior vice president of UK and Ireland offshore.
Workshop: Equinor’s Digital Innovation Zone
(Presented by Equinor)
Mariner is one of the most digitally advanced developments in the North Sea. Digital solutions support safe and efficient operations on Mariner. We invite you to come along and explore some of the new technology we’re using to support daily operations and construction globally. Digital Field Worker - tablets have been used to replace paperwork and manual processes offshore. This has generated huge time savings for Equinor. Over the last two years 13,000 work-hours have been saved through the introduction of this technology. Echo, a digital 3D copy, or digital twin, of the platform. When combined with the digital field worker tools Echo provides quick access to and an overview of key technical information, supporting safe and efficient operational and maintenance activities. HoloLens2 – mixed reality, holographic glasses. By placing holographic projections of a model in the ‘real world’ you can open up a new dimension. When used with Echo, our 3D model of the platform, they can be used to monitor for and map errors and faults which may occur in the plant and explore them in real time. Suddenly your world turns interactive and you can click on physical objects which appear in front of you to bring up more information.
Future Fuels Show
(Presented by Glasgow Science Centre)
Join us on an exciting mission to explore how we could generate power in the future. Learn about the different types of energy sources, including fossil fuels and renewables, and the ways that these can be harnessed to create energy.
Superhero Science
(Presented by Dr Matt Pritchard)
Are superpowers fact, fiction or feasible in the future? Explore invisibility, superstrength, body armour, levitation, mind control and find out what they do (or don’t) have to do with real science. And for those superpowers which are scientifically impossible? That’s where the magic comes in!
Workshop: Careers Networking
(Presented by Industry Professionals)
This workshop will give you a chance to meet and practise networking with Industry Professionals in an informal setting and think about your futures. To support this workshop there is a work booklet in your welcome bag which will get you thinking about the transferable skills you already have that link to your future opportunities.
Workshop: Climate Challenge
(Developed and Presented by TechFest)
Designed and delivered by TechFest this workshop aims to give students the confidence to present to their peers as well as engaging with the science behind Climate Change and what we can all do to make a difference. Students will also work to communicate what Industry is doing to meet the challenges of our future.
Crystal Maze
(Developed and Presented by TechFest)
Teams will be required to work their way around puzzle rooms solving mathematical problems in a race against time! Each challenge will relate to a different Maths theme and will require teamwork and lateral thinking.
Here are some of the highlights of the talks, workshops and shows of 2019:
The Supercool Show (45 mins)
Science Museum, London
Join Plasticine Pete and Pam as they travel to the extremes of temperature, and investigate the incredible effects of the coldest substance you'll ever see - liquid nitrogen. Find out what it feels like to touch a cloud, make instant ice cream, and stick your fingers in your ears as we blow up a balloon Science Museum-style!
Photo Credit: Ross Johnston/Newsline Media/Equinor (formerly Statoil)
''The hydrogen balloon explosion was spectacular.'' Student, Cults Academy
"Excellent show, pupils were engaged and enthusiastic." Teacher, Meldrum Academy
Workshop: Ready to be Blown Away? (45 mins)
Developed and presented by TechFest, supported by Equinor (formerly Statoil)
This workshop explores renewable energy, specifically how we can harness kinetic energy from the wind. Pupils learn about Hywind Scotland, the world’s first floating wind farm, before participating in a challenge to build the most efficient windmill.
Photo Credit: Ross Johnston/Newsline Media/Equinor (formerly Statoil)
"You got to use your own creativity" Student, Kincorth Academy
Workshop: Learn How to Rock It (45 mins)
Developed and presented by Equinor (formerly Statoil)
Pupils travel back in time to discover the origins of oil and gas in the North Sea. This workshop looks at how these natural resources are formed, including those from Equinor's (formerly Statoil) Mariner field.
"It was informative and very fun and interactive" Student, Alford Academy
Workshop: Installation Manager (45 mins)
Developed and Presented by Risktec and STEM Ambassadors
This workshop puts the pupils in the position of Offshore Installation Manager; responsible for both safety and oil & gas production on an offshore installation. They are faced with scenarios that require them to balance the risk of a major accident vs the reward of continued oil & gas production.
This game is facilitated by industry STEM ambassadors providing context from their own experiences.
Photo Credit: Ross Johnston/Newsline Media/Equinor (formerly Statoil)
“Great fun and interesting to learn about the oil rigs.” Student, Albyn School
Demo: RGU Engineering (30 mins)
Developed and Presented by RGU Engineering Department
Robert Gordon University boasts impressive, state-of-the-art engineering laboratories equipped with the very latest engineering technology and pupils get the opportunity to see some of this equipment in action. Demos include the department’s Ocean Wave Tank, ROV Pool and Wind Tunnel.
Photo Credit: Ross Johnston/Newsline Media/Equinor (formerly Statoil)
“I really enjoyed it and it has encouraged me to take more of an interest in engineering.” Student, St. Margaret’s School for Girls
Pupil STEM Talks
The original concept for the Heroes of Tomorrow events remains and schools are asked to nominate pupils interested in presenting a STEM talk. These are held in the amphitheater after one of the showings of the ‘Big Energy Show’.
Pupils can include this talk as part of their CREST Awards.
Pupils who successfully completed a talk were awarded a prize bag with goodies from the Science Museum, courtesy of Equinor (formerly Statoil), and a certificate.
Photo Credit: Ross Johnston/Newsline Media/Equinor (formerly Statoil)
"Heroes of Tomorrow is Equinor's talent development concept and we are delighted to extend this to TechFest Public Programme, celebrating many of Aberdeen's finest examples of leadership and innovation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. There are talks and tours for everyone to share their interest and passion for STEM, as well as many opportunities for young people to gain an insight into subjects for potential future studies or careers. We are delighted to play our part in celebrating some of Aberdeen's success stories and supporting the next generation through TechFest." - Hedda Felin, Managing Director, Equinor (formerly Statoil) Production, (UK) Ltd
For more information, contact Jenny Taylor at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 01224 274194 and become part of Heroes of Tomorrow!
Supported by CNOOC International, STEM in the Installation is a fantastic project that is split into four separate phases to ensure all ages are catered for. Through STEM in the Installation pupils as young as three years old have the opportunity to begin developing the transferable skills that will help equip them with all the tools they will require for success. As these pupil’s progress through the school system, they will have the opportunity to further their learning and partake in a STEM in the Installation project at each key phase of their development.
Phase 1: Early Years and Lower Primary School Programme
Ages: 3-7 years Duration: ½ day session
Inspired by the Golden Eagle, children are encouraged to take responsibility for their own safety and learn how to make their school and home environment safer. This workshop is an early skills builder, setting participants up for success and setting the tone of STEM in the Installation from the outset.
Phase 2: Upper Primary School Programme
Ages: 8-11 years Duration: ½ day session
Continuing on from the workshop experienced in the lower stages at Primary School, this session explores the engineering, science and technology involved in the installation of North Sea assets. Core transferable skills such as problem solving, collaboration, team work, evaluation and improvement will encourage students to develop decision making skills which are bold and innovative.
Phase 1 & 2 Touring Programme
Our touring workshops are designed for you and your class to take part in at a time that suits you, we send you the resource and then virtually visit you when you have completed it to hear about your results.
Invite TechFest into your classroom and immerse yourself in the mysterious mechanics of energy! This workshop is suitable for P1 – P7. At time of booking let us know the age range of your class and we will send you the appropriate resources.
We all use energy in our daily lives. Every time we turn on a light switch, get into a car, or even just get out of bed – it’s all energy! But how can we harness different sources of energy in order to meet our global energy demand? Together, we will investigate different types of energy and explore how they are used. What’s more, our friends at CNOOC International challenge you to use the energy of the wind by designing your very own wind turbines – who will be able to create the best design?!
For P4-P7, students will be tasked with designing two different types of wind turbines and will take part in an experiment to see which design is better in terms of function and structure (all templates and information will be available to download). Pre-recorded video footage and teacher resources will be provided so the main activity in this workshop can be completed at your leisure, prior to a live visit from one of the TechFest team who will be delighted to join you in the classroom and discuss the results of the student's activity, as well as answering any questions.
If you wish to book a Touring Workshop please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Phase 3: Lower Secondary School Programme
Ages: 11-14 years Duration: 1 day
This one-day event has numerous engaging and interactive challenges inspired by the subsea installation of the Golden Eagle project. The highlight of the day is the afternoon challenge where the students are challenged to design and build their own asset.
Phase 4: Upper Secondary School Programme
Ages: 16-18 years Duration: 3 months
STEM in the Installation Phase 4 is integrated with STEM in the Pipeline - Energising the Transition.
For more information please contact Jenny Taylor at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
STEM in the Pipeline is one of TechFest’s key events across our annual programme. This project is available to S6 pupils and runs from September to December. The project is designed for teams of pupils (max. of 6 pupils per team) to compete in a realistic project set within the Energy Industry.
Each part of the process allows the students to advance their knowledge of STEM subjects but also encourages them to develop their transferable skills, both as an individual and as part of a team. STEM in the Pipeline requires an interdisciplinary approach and as such is relevant across a diverse range of skill sets. By engaging in career exploration, students will become more aware of the different job roles involved in the Energy Industry, which will hopefully help them make informed choices about their education and lives after school.
STEM in the Pipeline begins with an Introduction Day event, where the students are provided with all the information and tools necessary to take on this ambitious project. Following on from the Introduction Day, there is several weeks of independent research as the teams work through the project Task Book. Throughout the duration of the project, each team receives help from an industry professional, acting as a mentor, who can provide advice and support. The final stage of this project is a Presentation Day and where the teams present their completed project to a panel of assessors. All the teams receive feedback and prizes are awarded to the winning teams.
Every year the STEM in the Pipeline project receives exceptionally positive feedback from students, teachers and the industry professionals. It is a brilliant opportunity for students to apply the knowledge they have learned in school to a real-life situation. As well as being academically challenging, this project requires skilful project management, communication and teamwork, and is a great introduction to university level projects or for entering the work force. However, it is the one-to-one guidance and advice that the students receive from their industry mentor that really makes this project so successful and an incredibly valuable experience for all involved.
Registration and Timeline for 2024 coming soon.
For more information please email Jenny Taylor at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
It's never too early to develop a passion for books and science!
Online Versions of Bookbug Resources are now available to download!
In honour of the author and illustrator Eric Carle
Download The Very Hungry Caterpillar resources here.
Download Presenter resource for The Very Hungry Caterpillar here.
Other resources
Click here to download Water Cycle activities (2021).
Click here to download 10 Terrible Dinosaurs Resouce for Bookbug Session Leaders.
Click here to download 10 Terrible Dinosaurs Take Home Resource.
Click here to download some dinosaur colouring-in pages!
Bookbug also seeks to engage children in books with a range of activities such as free Bookbug sessions and Bookbug's Library Challenge. TechFest works in partnership with Aberdeen City Libraries, Aberdeenshire Libraries and Scottish Book Trust to bring a science twist to the already popular Bookbug sessions, where children can join in songs, stories and rhymes at their local library.
In past TechFest Bookbug Sessions, children were delighted to learn about living things and developing positive relationships with 'The House that Zac Built' and were provided with activities to take home that encouraged exploring building different structures with blocks.
For more information about Bookbug, visit the Aberdeen City Libraries, Aberdeenshire Council and Scottish Book Trust websites!
Bookbug is part of TechFest's annual Festival. To see the other events and workshops involved in our Public Programme, visit FESTIVAL
Stimulating pupils' interest in the Chemical Sciences and inspiring students about future careers in Chemistry and STEM subjects through demonstrations and hands-on experience.
The aim of the event is to show P6/7 pupils a positive image of the Chemical Sciences with exciting, interesting and wealth-creating activities. It is hoped that these events will stimulate the pupils' interest in Chemistry and help them understand and appreciate its importance in society.
The presentations are inspiring, educational and informative and promise to be fun with interactive elements that enable pupils to get involved.
For more information about any of the programmes TechFest offers, please get in touch! contact us
"The hands-on activities made it more exciting for pupils. Pupils now realise Chemistry is all around us and not just for scientists. Day was interesting and engaging."
Teacher, Applegrove Primary School
"I enjoyed today because it made me want to do Chemistry at High School."
Pupil, Central Primary School
"My enthusiasm for Chemistry has increased thinking of the ideas. Great to see you can use everyday objects to teach this subject. We will definitely be looking out for future events."
Teacher, Central Primary School
