Viridor continues 15-year partnership to support STEM opportunities in Scotland
As young people across Scotland face barriers to accessing work experience and exploring future careers, Viridor has renewed its partnership with EDT for a 15th consecutive year. The partnership supported 224 pupils from 34 schools last year, connecting classroom learning with real-world opportunities in STEM.
In June 2026, research published by Scotland’s national skills body, Skills Development Scotland (SDS), found that while 87% of recent school leavers were satisfied with what they were doing, many identified a lack of opportunities, work experience, contacts and confidence as barriers to their future pathways1.
Against this backdrop, sustained investment from employers is helping bring education and the world of work closer together. Together, Viridor and EDT continue to support young people across Glasgow, South Lanarkshire and the Clyde Valley, comprising of North Lanarkshire Council, Renfrewshire Council, North Ayrshire Council, East Dunbartonshire Council and East Renfrewshire Council, to explore STEM pathways that are critical to Viridor’s operations and discover future career possibilities.
Last year, students across the three regions came together to take part in EDT’s Industrial Cadets Bronze Project, exploring real-world challenges linked to sustainability, engineering and the circular economy, building confidence and developing skills in teamwork, communication and problem-solving. Many pupils also had the opportunity to visit a Viridor site, gaining first-hand insight into the sector and the role engineering, science and technology play in supporting a more sustainable future.
For young people beginning to consider their next steps,these experiences can help make unfamiliar industries more accessible, connect learning to potential careers and broaden their understanding of the routes available to them.
Julie Feest, CEO of EDT and Industrial Cadets, said: “Talent is universal, but opportunity is not. Young people need more than information about future careers, they need meaningful opportunities to experience different industries, meet employers and discover what they could achieve.
“Viridor’s commitment is a powerful example of how long-term industry support can help make those opportunities possible. By working together, we are helping young people across Scotland connect their learning with real-world challenges, build confidence and explore futures they may not previously have considered.”
Steven Don, Head of Local Authority Contracts Scotland for Viridor, said: “We're delighted to continue our partnership with EDT for a 15th year and build on everything we've achieved together. It's a fantastic opportunity to inspire young people across the communities we work with and show them the exciting careers available in science, technology and engineering.
"These skills are vital to our industry, and by giving young people the chance to see them in action, we hope to encourage the next generation to consider a career in STEM. It's something we're proud to support, both for the future of our sector and the communities we serve.”
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