SSERC is thrilled to unveil an exciting new partnership between the Young STEM Leader Programme (YSLP) and the CREST Awards programme - marking a major step forward in celebrating and championing young people in STEM across Scotland.
From the 2025–2026 academic year, every young person who earns a Young STEM Leader Award at Levels 3 to 7 (YSL3–SL7) will be eligible to automatically claim a free CREST Award. With a simple upload of their YSLP certificate, learners can unlock CREST Awards ranging from Discovery to Silver—and for those ready to go further, there’s the opportunity to progress to Gold.
At the heart of this collaboration is a shared ambition: to inspire, recognise, and elevate the next generation of STEM leaders. The Young STEM Leader Programme, led by SSERC, already empowers young people to build confidence, develop vital skills, and lead meaningful STEM activities. Now, through this dynamic new partnership, their achievements will gain even greater national recognition.
CREST is the British Science Association’s flagship education programme that give students the opportunity to develop STEM skills and confidence through open-ended investigative projects. CREST Awards are recognised by universities and employers; they’re a great achievement with which to demonstrate an aptitude and passion for a chosen STEM topic.
This is more than a partnership—it’s a celebration of purpose, curiosity, and leadership. Together, YSLP and CREST are opening new doors for young people across Scotland to have their STEM journeys recognised, rewarded, and amplified.