National Mining Museum Scotland -budding young engineers competition

Young innovators from across Midlothian have showcased their creativity and engineering skills as part of the annual Midlothian Schools Engineering Design Competition – “The Rescuers”, with the winning teams crowned at National Mining Museum Scotland.

Now in its fourth year, the competition brings together pupils from schools in Midlothian to design and build an innovative rescue machine or vehicle capable of helping people, animals or the environment.

Danderhall, Tynewater, Woodburn and King’s Park Primaries all took part in this year’s challenge, submitting their most inventive creations for a special exhibition at National Mining Museum Scotland, where visitors, pupils and teachers had the chance to explore the designs and learn about the engineering process behind them.

The project, sponsored by Esk Valley Rotary Club, aims to inspire young people to explore science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) through hands-on learning. Throughout the challenge, pupils developed their understanding of the engineering design process, learning about materials, mechanisms and their properties while working collaboratively to solve problems.

Adrian Lawrie, Vice President of Esk Valley Rotary, commented: “Fantastic examples of innovation, creation, teamwork, engineering and project management from a very impressive group of young people showcasing their skills and imagination to deliver rescue solutions in a variety of situations. All took into consideration many factors including climate challenge and sustainability – well done and congratulations to all.”

At the Awards Ceremony held on Friday 27 March at National Mining Museum Scotland, judges awarded:

1st Place:
Runners-up:

1st place – Super Potato from Woodburn Primary

2nd Place – Project Molly from Danderhall Primary

3rd Place – KPBH from Tynewater Primary

4th Place – Harold the Submarine from King’s Park Primary

Each team receives a school trophy and their own certificates to take home!

“Highly commended”

The Saver from Woodburn Primary (Amber, Chloe, Olivia)

Percy the Pelican (Sophie, Lily, Harrison, Zoe, Matteo, Layla) from King’s Park Primary

Alongside the judges’ prizes, pupils also had the opportunity to vote for their favourite design, awarding a special Pupil’s Choice Award.

The exhibition of entries was on display at the museum from 23–27 March, giving visitors the chance to see the creative rescue machines up close and celebrate the achievements of Midlothian’s young engineers.

Notes to Editors

The National Mining Museum Scotland, housed in the wonderfully restored Lady Victoria Colliery, is a Five Star visitor attraction and a recognised collection of national significance. First opened in the 1890s, the ‘Lady’ became known as one of Scotland’s first super pits and today is home to extensive collections telling the story of Scotland’s mining heritage.

For further information please contact:
Gillian Rankin
Marketing and Events Manager
National Mining Museum Scotland
0131 663 7519
marketing@nationalminingmuseum.com