EDT (Engineering Development Trust) offers young people active learning experiences in STE(A)M-related careers, giving them the opportunity to gain knowledge and exposure that will help them make decisions about their future. Their mission aligns perfectly with Taylor and Fraser’s ambition to support students interested in careers in Engineering and Construction. 

​EDT aims to increase interest in STE(A)M careers (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Maths) through a variety of engaging and dynamic programmes for ages 9-21 that replicate workplace experiences. Taylor and Fraser are delighted to support EDT and provide workplace experience and mentorship to local programme participants.

We were recently invited to help with a Bronze-level Industrial Cadets project being conducted by a 5-pupil team from Gleniffer High School in Paisley.

The Bronze-level project is designed to provide 2nd-year pupils with the opportunity to gain key skills for learning, life, and work, as well as working as a team on a set STEM project.  Students can learn about their future career paths and the exciting STEM opportunities available to them through their partner company and a variety of webinars from STEM Professionals and Universities.  Aligned with the Curriculum for Excellence, it enhances the work students complete in their academic education. At the end of the scheme, students graduate as Bronze-level Industrial Cadets, a nationally recognised award that students can use as evidence of their experience and take forward to complement their future applications and career journeys.

Initially, the students were given four briefs from which to choose a project. The Gleniffer School decided to develop ideas for an eco-friendly theme park. For this, they had to create a design and make a presentation. 

The team at Taylor and Fraser provided some initial guidance about the things that needed to be considered when discussing and developing their concept. We also invited the team to our Head Office to meet our team and to experience a working office. During their visit, they also had a tour of our premises, including our stores, where they were encouraged to use what they could to create models to demonstrate their concept. The team found enough material in our stores to make a very impressive model of a windmill, which played an integral part in delivering the sustainability element of their project solution. 

The final stage of the project was for the team to present their project at the Paisley Campus of the University of the West of Scotland. The presentation included a slide show, sketches, and models, and a panel quizzed the team about their design. 

Speaking about the Industrial Cadet Bronze-level project, Taylor and Fraser Project Manager Liam Robertson said: “It was a pleasure to help the team from Gleniffer High School with their Industrial Cadet entry; they were keen to learn and put a great deal of thought and effort into the project.

“We are always pleased to see young people who are enthused by what they see at Taylor and Fraser. We need people coming into the business who are passionate about what they do, and it’s encouraging to see that, even at their young age, they have a genuine interest in solving real problems through creativity and innovation.

“I’d delighted that they did so well, and I hope they found the whole experience rewarding and enjoyable.”