Ann Mack
A new programme, involving science, mathematics and technology subjects, is set to be introduced at a school in Lochaber.
Careers in science, technology, engineering and maths, STEM, are being actively promoted in Kinlochleven High.
The programme, STEM Matters, will show pupils of all ages that studying these subjects can lead to a wide range of career opportunities.
Head teacher, Rebecca Machin, said: “It is not just about promoting STEM careers, but about opening our eyes to what is possible and the wide range of opportunities many are unaware of.
“We want to build a programme, from S1 to S6, that will enable our youngsters to do just that and see what is possible.”
Every pupil in S1 and S2 attended the Edinburgh International Science festival thanks to support from the Developing the Young Workforce Project, DWW, West Highland, and took part in an immersive careers event.
This focused on the challenges young people will face in the future and how they can be addressed. The pupils were also told about the STEM careers which can help to build a better world.
The event was supported by a wide range of companies and volunteers from STEM industries who have a keen interest in engaging with schools and their pupils.
Dougie Ormiston from DYW West Highland said: “Careers in STEM subjects offer young people opportunities to pursue exciting and lucrative careers.
“By working closely with schools to identify and deliver opportunities for young people to learn about careers in these subjects, we’re giving them the chance to explore what working in science, technology, engineering and maths can bring.”
Kinlochleven High has also entered into a school-business partnership with local STEM company, Green Highland Renewables.
The firm co-ordinated site visits to the powerhouse and dam between Loch Eilde Mor and Loch Eilde Beag for all S2 and S3 pupils who are studying physics.
Alan Morrison, the school’s PT Science and Physics teacher, added: “The S3s who visited the dam, many of whom are planning to study Engineering Science next year, were very attentive when hearing about how the hydro-scheme there works.
“Some S2 pupils, on visiting the turbine hall, applied their previous knowledge of Newton’s 3rd law of motion on site and used maths skills to calculate the time for the water to reach the turbine and the dam.
“Having a business partnership such as this is a great way to enrich pupils’ learning.”
Green Highland Renewables subsequently visited the school to speak to youngsters about STEM sector careers, as part of an initiative which was also supported by DYW West Highland and Skills Development Scotland.
Eight employees gave a mini-talk and illustrated a variety of career pathways in careers in these subjects, from apprenticeships to further and higher education in a huge range of fields, all working locally in the Kinlochleven area.
This demonstrated the wide range of opportunities available to local youngsters when they begin to make their choices for their senior phase at the school.
