A group of S5 and S6 pupils from Lanarkshire have received recognition for developing the skills Scotland’s employers value most.
They excelled in teamwork, communication and problem-solving and picked up a national Ken Muir Award for Exceptional Achievement.
Five youngsters from Calderglen High in East Kilbride, St Maurice’s High in Cumbernauld, St John Ogilvie High in Hamilton and Strathaven Academy were selected as part of a Scotland-wide cohort in recognition of the “remarkable personal growth, resilience and workplace-readiness” they demonstrated whilst completing the Powering Futures Challenge Programme – a SCQF Level-6 qualification which sees pupils work in teams to tackle real-life challenges set by business and industry partners. Through the programme, pupils develop practical workplace skills while strengthening links with locally-based mentors working in Scottish businesses.
While over 2000 pupils nationally undertook the Powering Futures Schools Challenge Qualification, the Lanarkshire award winners impressed their teachers with their personal development throughout the programme – and were recognised for growing in confidence, strengthening their teamwork and communication skills and taking meaningful steps towards their future careers.
Fergus Wood of Strathaven Academy was one of the award winners and was nominated for his dedication and drive throughout the entire year, but especially during the final presentation phase. Beyond keeping his team focused anon schedule, Fergus demonstrated remarkable growth in his meta-skills. His newfound confidence and natural leadership not only elevated his own performance but were instrumental to his team’s success.
The Ken Muir Awards for Exceptional Achievement were launched in June 2025 and recognise exceptional achievement of learners who participated in the Powering Futures Challenge Level 6 qualification.
Professor Ken Muir of the University of the West of Scotland – after whom the awards are named – has played a key role in advising the Scottish Government on the future of Scottish education. As a key contributor to the 2023 report, It’s Our Future – Independent Review of Qualifications and Assessment, Professor Muir has called for reforms to Scotland’s system of education, including preparing learners better for the world of work.
Professor Muir said: “We need a culture and mindset shift in Scotland’s education system. Of course, examination grades are important – but these awards, and the ethos of the Powering Futures Schools Challenge Programme overall, is about reimagining what success looks like by valuing and recognising achievement in every sense of the word.
“Whether that is developing communication skills, learning to work in a team, or building confidence in presenting an idea, I am delighted to present these Awards to pupils who demonstrate the immense value of Powering Futures’ exciting and motivating learner-centred approach.”
Jennifer Tempany, co-founder of Powering Futures, said: “We are delighted to celebrate this year’s Ken Muir Award winners, recognising the immense personal growth and achievement they have demonstrated this academic year.
“By connecting these young people directly with Scottish business and industry through a hands-on approach, we are not only celebrating their success but actively opening up vital career pathways and empowering them to confidently shape a sustainable and prosperous future for Scotland.”
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