National Ken Muir Award for Exceptional Achievement shines a spotlight on personal development achievements beyond exam results
Two Renfrewshire pupils receive award out of 2,000 national programme participants
A group of S5 and S6 pupils from Renfrewshire have received recognition for developing the skills Scotland’s employers value most - including teamwork, communication and problem-solving - at a national awards ceremony celebrating exceptional achievement this week.
Two pupils from Johnstone High School and St Benedict’s High School 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.
Zuzanna Stepinska (pictured), of Johnstone High School, was among over 2,000 young people nationwide to take part in the Powering Futures Challenge Programme created to celebrate achievements that go beyond traditional academic attainment.
While over 2,000 pupils nationally undertook the Powering Futures Schools Challenge Qualification, the Renfrewshire award winners impressed their teachers with their personal development throughout the programme - with winners recognised for growing in confidence, strengthening their teamwork and communication skills, and taking meaningful steps towards their future careers.
Andy McKenzie, Faculty Head of Science at Johnstone High School, said: “Zuzanna’s dedication throughout the year has been exceptional. She approached every task with care, thoughtfulness, and a genuine commitment to doing her best. The contributions she made to her group were always insightful and well considered, and she consistently supported and encouraged those around her.
“While she is a fantastic team player, it was wonderful to see her confidence grow to the point where she naturally stepped into a leadership role when needed. Her determination, kindness, and ability to bring out the best in others have made a real impact on the course, making her a truly deserving recipient of this award.”
The Ken Muir Awards for Exceptional Achievement were launched in June 2025.
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-centered 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.”