An initiative has been set up to encourage students into maths and science subjects.

The programme, the Education Collaborative, is run by the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) of Santa Maria and provides grants as well as organising contests to inspire creativity within the classroom.

It will focus on California's future energy supply.

SPE Education Collaborative representative Gayle Pratt commented: "It is our belief that investment in education ensures solutions to meet the needs of a worldwide economy."

The grants and contests are open to students and teachers in the Santa Barbara region of the US and successful classrooms can receive grants up to $1,500 (£884).

One classroom will get the opportunity to see how advanced oil and gas engineering technology functions with a chance to watch a water well being drilled in the developing world.

The SPE announced last month that it was to introduce a new strategic plan designed to "guide the society forward" to be reviewed every year.

Oil and Gas Directory: Training and Development