Young people in Scotland have the chance to inspire, lead and mentor their peers through the creation and delivery of STEM activities, events and interactions within their schools, communities and youth groups. The Young STEM Leader (YSL) Programme aims to inspire more young people to develop an interest in STEM and pursue the study of STEM subjects and relevant future pathways.
As well as allowing the YSLs to develop important leadership, communication and employability skills, working towards a YSL Award will also motivate the young people to continue to progress their STEM studies and perhaps eventually embark on a career in STEM. Above all else, this programme aims to promote STEM curiosity in young people and to encourage them to learn about the world around them in a fun and engaging way.
This Scottish Government-funded programme is led by SSERC and a range of partners, including the four Scottish Science Centres, three Scottish STEM Ambassador Hubs, Science Festivals, Young Scot, YouthLink Scotland, Science Skills Academy, Education Scotland and the Scottish Mentoring Network.
The YSL Programme is offered in two versions:
• Non-formal award, digitally badged or certificated. The non-formal version of the programme is offered at CfE Second, Third and Fourth Levels and is underpinned by a framework that identifies the skills, knowledge and behaviours expected of a YSL at each curricular level.
• Formal award, SCQF credit rated by SQA. The formal version of the programme will be offered at SCQF Levels 4, 5 and 6 (subject to the completion of credit rating by SQA) and underpinned by
learning outcomes and performance criteria for each level. SCQF credit points and Insight tariff points are included within the formal version of the programme.
Find out more by visiting www.youngstemleader.scot