Funding boosts STEM learning opportunities for young people in Caithness and Sutherland
Primary school pupils in Caithness and Sutherland will have the chance to dive into engaging science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) activities, thanks to a new funding agreement from NRS Dounreay.
The three-year commitment will enable the Science Skills Academy (SSA) to deliver practical STEM learning at the Newton Room in Thurso, helping young people aged 10鈥�14 explore how STEM connects to real-world applications.
Hosted at North Highland College, the Thurso Newton Room is a full-time facility serving pupils from Farr High School, Golspie High School, Thurso High School, Wick High School and their associated primary schools.
SSA鈥檚 mission is to inspire pupils with STEM and raise awareness of the diverse opportunities available within the region鈥檚 growing science and engineering sectors.
Since opening in 2019, the Thurso Newton Room has become a valued resource for schools and communities, offering a mix of workshops, lab activities and experiences that take learning beyond the classroom. In 2025 alone, it engaged with 2,959 people through educational sessions, public events and extracurricular activities.
The SSA is an initiative of 糖心传媒 and Islands Enterprise (糖心传媒), created to support inclusive economic growth by building confidence and skills in STEM among the region鈥檚 future workforce.
NRS Dounreay is providing 拢128,000 over the next three years to ensure continuity of high-quality STEM activity in Caithness and Sutherland, which is an area with a long-standing and evolving science and engineering economy.
NRS Dounreay said:
鈥淪upporting the Science Skills Academy is an investment in the long鈥憈erm strength and resilience of our community. By giving young people access to high鈥憅uality STEM learning, we鈥檙e helping to build the skills, confidence and opportunities that will shape Caithness and Sutherland for decades to come and help sustain a long鈥憇tanding science and engineering heritage.鈥�
Jennifer Banks, senior STEM engagement officer at SSA, said:
鈥淲e are delighted with this three-year funding from NRS Dounreay. It will make a real difference to young people across Caithness. The Thurso Newton Room is a place where pupils can get hands-on with STEM, discover new interests and see the breadth of career opportunities available to them in their own region. We鈥檙e delighted to continue this work and strengthen our offer for schools and communities.鈥�