By Ross Thomson

Copyright dailyrecord

Two Linlithgow primary schools have been putting their construction skills to the test as part of a new programme launched by a leading national charity and a Scottish University. Primary seven pupils from St Josephs’ and Linlithgow Primaries recently helped Nil by Mouth launch its ‘STEM Together’ programme in West Lothian which provides schools free use of state of the art kits which hone children’s construction and engineering abilities as well as taking part in classroom workshops looking at different identities in Scotland. The promotion of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Maths) has become a hugely important part of the school curriculum in Scotland and recognises the importance of those sectors to the economy and job market. Nil by Mouth believe that STEM can also be used to promote equality in the classroom by bringing children from denominational and non-denominational schools together to work collaboratively. Pupils are broken into groups and assigned specific roles to maximise participation and underline the importance of working together to solve problems. There is a particular focus on visual learning and problem solving across a range of 24 STEM tasks involving construction, hydraulics, conceptual thinking, accurate measurement and testing the safety of designs. The project has attracted support from Napier University through its HCI Skills Gateway programme which delivers routes into construction careers across the Edinburgh and South East Scotland city region. The HCI Skills Gateway creates opportunities for everyone, covering skills at all stages including supporting young people to consider careers in the building environment, finding new ways to train for 21st century construction careers. Funding from HCI Gateway allows schools across West Lothian to access the project free of charge with Our Lady of Lourdes Blackburn, Seafield, Whitdale and Kirkhill Primaries having already participated with over 250 children benefiting in the last few weeks alone. Dr Kenny Leitch, Academic Lead, HCI Skills Development said: “The Housing, Construction and Infrastructure Skills Gateway, champion the work undertaken by Nil by Mouth and support their activities, particularly that which reaches children at an early stage. “The construction industry is trying to improve the way it is perceived as a means of encouraging more young people to choose it as a career. “Nil by Mouth contribute to this work by challenging the wider issues that exist in society through hands on construction related activities and by doing so in a positive and engaging manner.” Dave Scott, Director, Nil by Mouth added: “Alongside our work in the classroom, programmes like this help children from different backgrounds and traditions develop teamwork skills and appreciate the different perspectives others bring to solving a problem. “Building bridges between people has always been a central part of Nil by Mouths’ mission and it’s been amazing spending a few days with St Josephs and Linlithgow watching the children work and learn so easily together. “This project is proving hugely popular and we are very grateful to Napier University and HCI Skills Gateway for backing us and providing children in West Lothian with a chance to show their STEM skills.” Don’t miss the latest news from the West Lothian Courier. Sign up to our free newsletter here .