From East Lothian Courier 17th Sept 2009

Preston Lodge High School former pupil computer scientist has fought off fierce opposition to reach the final stages of a competition designed to find the UK’s most enterprising student.

Daniel Robertson won a place in the regional final of Shell Step’s annual search and now travels to Glasgow next month for the chance to reach the national finals in London.

The 21-year-old – studying Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science at the University of Edinburgh – took part in a Shell Step work experience placement at LEEP Recycling in Roslin and used his computing skills to produce a document formalising their business procedures, particularly in relation to their software system.

Daniel, of Schaw Road, said: “It’s great to get through to the Scottish final especially since the competition was so tough. I had a wonderful time at LEEP Recycling and will be doing more for them. The Shell Step placement has been invaluable to me. Not only have I been able to use my knowledge from my university course in a real business environment, but I’ve also improved my people’s skills and loved working in a team.”

Shell Step is a leading creator of tailored work placement programmes for students in small and medium-sized businesses.

A national network of skilled agents matches student applicants, from all academic backgrounds, to predefined business projects that take place over the summer during an eight week period.

Ken McLean general manager, LEEP Recycling said: “Daniel has been invaluable to us this summer. This is the third time we have been involved with the Shell Step programme, and we’d certainly recommend it. He has produced a comprehensive user manual that will be used to train staff that will save us time and makes us far more efficient. We wish Daniel the best of luck in the Scottish final.”

Daniel is pictured with a certificate by Alex Baird, plant installation manager at Shell’s Mosmorran facility in Fife