Their mission involved building an egg transporter with the aid of a box full of drinking straws, some elastic bands, a ball of string and an one egg.

The test was part of the interview process to win a place on Amey's Apprenticeship Scheme in Scotland.

Amey hosted an assessment day at Hilton Strathclyde Hotel, Bellshill, North Lanarkshire, part of which was to discover how the pupils dealt with building an egg transportation device.

The device was then launched four meters into the air – and had to land without smashing the egg.

The idea behind building the contraption was to see how the pupils dealt with issues such as problem solving and team building, as well as testing their communications skills.

In total, five youngsters were given a place on the apprenticeship scheme as electricians, service engineers and accountants.

Amey account director for Scottish Schools Margaret Mayer said: "The calibre of those taking part was high. I am sure they'll have an enjoyable career and apprenticeship with Amey.

"As a company, we are proud that we give young people the chance to take part in our apprenticeship schemes. In fact around 2% of our total workforce across the UK are either apprentices or graduates."

Each apprentice will also be given the chance to get the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award.

As well as the apprenticeship scheme, Amey is interested in hearing from young people who want a career in civil engineering.

If you have the necessary qualifications and enthusiasm and would like to complete a degree in civil engineering as an apprentice, then email your details to projectsupport@amey.co.uk.

deborah.anderson@ eveningtimes.co.uk