Students bid for BAE Systems title

S2 pupils are taking part in a challenge to design and build model ships using paper, card, sticky tape and glue. The teams will then go head to head to put their models through their paces at the University of Strathclyde's Department of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering. The models will undertake a range of challenges, including trials to assess their speed, cargo carrying capability, sea keeping and survivability in rough seas. BAE Engineering Director Kevin McLeod described the challenge as a great way for pupils to get involved in engineering. "We take the opportunity to highlight the potential career opportunities and inspire them to consider an exciting future in the industry, working on some of the largest and most complex projects in the UK," he added. Each school is assigned a BAE Systems ambassador to work with the budding engineers, visiting the schools weekly to help pupils develop an understanding of the basic principles of engineering and naval architecture. Pupils were also invited into the business' Scotstoun shipyard to view part of the Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carriers under construction. Schools participating in this year's competition are Bearsden Academy, Glasgow Gaelic School, Notre Dame High School, Clydebank High School, Port Glasgow High School, St. Roch's Secondary School, Hermitage Academy, Smithycroft Secondary School, Williamwood High School, Woodfarm High School, Eastwood High School, Loudres High School and Govan High School.