SCOTTISH schoolkids could go down the forestry and timber 'root' after being given a taste of the industry by the BSW Group. 

Around 140 youngsters were shown at two recent events - one in Aberdeen and another in Dundee - how the sector is perfect for STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) jobs, and set five-minute, hands-on challenges with a focus on teamwork and problem solving.

Delivered by BSW alongside Confor and Scottish Forestry Trust, the sessions also detailed the link between planting trees, sequestering carbon and converting them into sustainable building products. 

READ MORE: Confor's Introduction to Forestry Machinery: Plugging the industry's skills gap

Dave Mills, mill manager at BSW Boat of Garten, which organised the event on behalf of BSW and Confor, said: “I really enjoyed being asked to represent BSW Group and Confor to help some of the really bright kids from North East Scotland to understand what we do in the timber sector.

"It helped to make the link between planting trees, sequestering carbon and then converting the trees into sustainable building products that we can all use in our daily lives, and which continue to lock up carbon for the future." 

The challenges set through the Aberdeen and Dundee events allowed the students to gain an understanding of the different career paths available in the STEM industry, while Digital Xtra Fund showcased the future of the sector by providing drop-in robotics activities on the day.

Forestry Journal: Students from St Margaret's Primary School attended a Celebration of Engineering at Dundee Science Centre.Students from St Margaret's Primary School attended a Celebration of Engineering at Dundee Science Centre.

Both primaries and secondary schools were present at the two events, with Elgin High teacher Duncan Johnston saying the workshops provided a great experience for pupils and the students were equally impressed.

A pupil from Aberdeen Grammar School said: “I liked being able to talk to people in the field and see what they do. I enjoyed getting tips from them and it gave great insight.”

Dave added: “It’s so important for us as a sector to stand with the other businesses in the region, representing what we do and what we stand for, so we can inspire and attract the future stars of our industry.

"When I was leaving school 30 years ago, I was inspired myself by someone in the sector that recognised my interest and helped me to be the manager I am today, so I recognise the value in paying that back.”