Hundreds of Cowal pupils dive into marine careers at Dunoon STEM event

MORE than 230 primary school pupils from across Cowal came together in Dunoon for a packed day of hands-on activities designed to open their eyes to the world of marine science, technology and environmental careers.
The event, SEAS26, brought a strong coastal focus to careers education, showing young people just how many future opportunities exist on their own doorstep in Argyll and Bute.
With the area home to one of the longest coastlines in Scotland, organisers said the event was all about helping pupils connect with the marine industries, science organisations and environmental projects that play such a major role in the region.
Delivered by Argyll and Bute Council’s education service in partnership with Developing the Young Workforce (DYW), the event built on the success of previous themed careers days including STARS24 for Kintyre schools and LANDS25 for pupils in Mid Argyll.
Throughout the day, children took part in a wide range of practical activities, demonstrations and interactive sessions led by organisations working across marine, environmental and scientific sectors.
Among those taking part was Dunoon-based company Shearwater Marine Services Ltd, which gave diving demonstrations and let pupils get a closer look at specialist equipment, while Bakkafrost offered an insight into the world of fish farming and aquaculture.
The Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust introduced youngsters to some of the marine mammals found in local waters, while SAMS gave pupils the chance to explore marine science through microscope-based experiments.
The Royal Navy brought along a submarine simulator as well as STEM activities, and later rounded off the day with a dramatic on-water display on the Clyde from the Royal Marines, featuring two offshore raiding craft carrying out manoeuvres.
Western Ferries took part with journey mapping and route exploration activities, while UHI Argyll hosted boat-building workshops where pupils could design and test model craft.
Seaweed Scotland examined the importance of local seaweed species to marine ecosystems, while the GRAB Trust promoted ocean protection and environmental responsibility.
There were also ship design demonstrations from naval architecture experts, marine protection activities from the Marine Conservation Society and a chance to learn about specialist policing from the MOD Police, who brought along equipment.
Primary pupils attending the event came from Kirn, Innellan, Dunoon, Sandbank, Toward, Strachur, Kilmodan and St Muns primary schools.
Young people from Hermitage Academy were also involved, representing the Argyll and Bute Climate Action Network and running their own stall during the event.
Councillor Kieron Green, Argyll and Bute Council’s policy lead for education, said the event gave young people an important opportunity to engage directly with industries that are central to the area.
He said: “SEAS26 offers young people valuable hands-on experience and a chance to learn more about the marine, science and environmental sectors that play such a key role in Argyll and Bute.
Events like this help encourage future careers and highlight the opportunities available locally.
A big thank you to everyone who took part in this inspiring event.”
Organisers also thanked all of the partner organisations involved for helping make the day such a success and for delivering such an engaging programme for the young people who attended.