The STEM Nation Award programme celebrates, promotes and builds effective practice in STEM education within and across sectors. The award framework can be used by settings who are just starting out on their STEM journey to help navigate the dynamic and exciting world of STEM. The framework can also be used by settings with well established STEM programmes to evaluate the impact of STEM in their setting and gain national recognition for this work.
Full details of the application and validation process are included in the guidance documents below.
Please ensure you download and read these documents before starting your application.
Submission deadline dates
Our dates for submitting your evidence are as follows:
Friday 13th November 2026
Friday 5th February 2027
Guidance documents
The full suite of STEM Nation Award guidance documents (available in English and Gaelic) and templates can be accessed and downloaded from our Google drive folder by using the links below. Included in each folder are:
- Application guidance
- Guidance for validators
- Evidence template
- Action plan template
If you are unable to access the Google Drive folder from within your authority please contact us at STEM@educationscotland.gov.scot and we can send over a copy of the guidance documents by email.
Evidence examples and further guidance
Examples of submissions from settings and resources to support the development and delivery of the five award elements can be found on our padlet.
Support sessions
Our education officers would be delighted to support you through the application process. We offer a series of drop in opportunities across the year. These sessions take place on Microsoft Teams and last for 30 minutes. You can simply drop in, ask some questions or seek advice. There is no need to stay for the duration of the call, simply ask your burning question and hopefully you’re good to go. Drop-in session links will be updated below.
You can also arrange a 1-1 support conversation online or an in-person visit to your setting (where appropriate) . Our education officers would be delighted to hear more about your application and offer guidance before you submit. To request a support conversation, email us at stem@educationscotland.gov.scot
Drop in sessions 2026 / 2027
Save the date! Our next drop in sessions are planned as follows:
Tuesday 3rd November 11am – 11.30am and 4pm – 4.30pm
Wednesday 27th January 11am – 11.30am and 4pm – 4.30 pm
The sign up link to attend a session will be live shortly.
