Celebrating the STEM Leader Class of 2024/25

Celebrating the STEM Leader Class of 2024/25

June 12, 2025 — The achievements of 23 exceptional young people were celebrated this week as the STEM Leader 7 Programme held its official Class of 2024/25 celebration event. The day brought together students, their families, and supporters to mark the end of a transformative year that saw these future leaders develop critical skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

The programme, which culminates in an SCQF Level 7 Award in STEM Leadership, provides young people with a unique opportunity to grow their confidence, learn from industry professionals, and contribute to real-world STEM projects. As they now prepare for the next stages of their academic and professional journeys, Programme Lead Graeme Rough reflected on the impact of this year’s group:

“The young people in this picture will go on to do more and more amazing things and I am proud to have worked with them this year – a really special group who I will miss.”

A special acknowledgment goes to Ocean Winds, the principal funder behind the development of this pioneering and one-of-a-kind award. Their generous support and commitment to youth development in STEM have been instrumental in creating a high-quality, accessible programme that is changing lives across Scotland. Ocean Winds’ vision and investment have helped lay the foundation for what is fast becoming a national model for excellence in STEM education and leadership.

“Without the belief and backing from Ocean Winds, this award simply wouldn’t exist in its current form,” Graeme added. “They’ve helped us shape something truly innovative—and we’re just getting started.”

With the Class of 24/25 now complete, applications are officially open for the next cohort. The 2025/26 programme will welcome 40 new STEM Leaders, and participation is completely free of charge.

Interested applicants can apply here.

Graeme is also calling on professionals working in STEM education to get involved:

“Our STEM Leaders can only benefit from your support and mentorship.”

The programme’s continued success would not be possible without the invaluable contributions of its partners: Ocean Winds, SSERC, the Royal Society of Chemistry, and Strathclyde Business School—each playing a vital role in delivering a high-impact experience for Scotland’s next generation of STEM professionals.

As the event came to a close, heartfelt thanks were shared for the Royal Society of Chemistry, whose commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion in STEM, along with their generosity and ongoing support, has helped power the delivery of this programme by The Education Academy Scotland. Their partnership continues to make a real difference in opening doors for aspiring young scientists and leaders across the country.