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Future inventors put through paces
27/11/2007
A glimpse into tomorrow's world was on offer for Education Secretary Fiona Hyslop when she met future inventors in Fife today.
The P6 and 7 pupils were taking part in the Enterprising Inventors Challenge, to modernise a famous Scottish invention and make it suitable for use in 2107.
Pupils had to design a poster illustrating their idea.
The inventors coming under the spotlight were:
- John Logie Baird - television
- James Watt - steam engine
- Kirkpatrick Macmillan - bicycle
- James Paraffin Young - paraffin
Ms Hyslop said:
"Today's event clearly highlights the enormous contribution Scottish inventors have made to our lives. From television to telephones and from tarmac to tyres, Scots have undoubtedly been at the forefront of shaping our world.
"As the nation prepares to celebrate St Andrew's Day on Friday, this is a great chance for pupils to learn more about Scotland's past, as well as inspiring them to play a part in our future.
"By developing the right skills and attitudes through enterprising activities like these, young people can become tomorrow's successful inventors and innovators."
Councillor Douglas Chapman, chair of Fife Council's education and children's services committee, said:
"Education is about so much more than the work that goes on in our classrooms. Events like these help encourage children to develop the types of skills which will take them on from school and help them to succeed in later life.
"The Determined to Succeed programme helps provide children with these all important skills, encouraging enterprising values and a positive attitude amongst Fife's young people."
The Enterprising Inventors Challenge was sponsored by Determined to Succeed, the government's strategy for enterprise in education, and Young Enterprise Scotland. The event was held as part of Scotland's celebration of enterprise throughout November and runs in conjunction with the celebrations leading to St Andrew's Day.
Determined to Succeed (DtS) is the Scottish Government's strategy for enterprise in education. DtS is improving the attitudes and skills of our young people, better preparing them for their contribution to a wealthier and smarter Scotland.
Five actors set the scene for today's event, playing the roles of the four inventors and Mary Queen of Scots.
The schools taking part were:
- Crossgates Primary
- Kelty Primary
- Foulford Primary
- Benarty Primary
- Denend Primary
- Lochgelly West Primary
- Hill of Beath Primary
- Cowdenbeath Primary
- Lumphinnans Primary
- Cardenden Primary
- Lochgelly South Primary
- St Ninian's Primary