Funding boosts STEM opportunities for young people in Caithness and Sutherland

16th February 2026

Primary school pupils in Caithness and Sutherland will have the chance to dive into engaging science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) activities, thanks to a new funding agreement from NRS Dounreay.

The three-year commitment will enable the Science Skills Academy (SSA) to deliver practical STEM learning at the Newton Room in Thurso, helping young people aged 10-14 explore how STEM connects to real-world applications.

Hosted at North Highland College, the Thurso Newton Room is a full-time facility serving pupils from Farr High School, Golspie High School, Thurso High School, Wick High School and their associated primary schools.

SSA's mission is to inspire pupils with STEM and raise awareness of the diverse opportunities available within the region's growing science and engineering sectors.

Since opening in 2019, the Thurso Newton Room has become a valued resource for schools and communities, offering a mix of workshops, lab activities and experiences that take learning beyond the classroom. In 2025 alone, it engaged with 2,959 people through educational sessions, public events and extracurricular activities.

The SSA is an initiative of Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), created to support inclusive economic growth by building confidence and skills in STEM among the region's future workforce.

NRS Dounreay is providing £128,000 over the next three years to ensure continuity of high-quality STEM activity in Caithness and Sutherland, which is an area with a long-standing and evolving science and engineering economy.

NRS Dounreay said, "Supporting the Science Skills Academy is an investment in the long‑term strength and resilience of our community. By giving young people access to high‑quality STEM learning, we’re helping to build the skills, confidence and opportunities that will shape Caithness and Sutherland for decades to come and help sustain a long‑standing science and engineering heritage."

Jennifer Banks, senior STEM engagement officer at SSA, said, "We are delighted with this three-year funding from NRS Dounreay. It will make a real difference to young people across Caithness. The Thurso Newton Room is a place where pupils can get hands-on with STEM, discover new interests and see the breadth of career opportunities available to them in their own region. We’re delighted to continue this work and strengthen our offer for schools and communities."