"I want to be a Scientist"
Published: 4 July 2014
The University recently hosted an event on Campus for nursery, primary and secondary 'highly able' pupils. It was the culmination of a lot of work with the local authority and with staff from their schools and the projects culminated.
These were the words uttered enthusiastically by a four year old as he entered the Gilbert Scott Building, writes Dr Margaret Sutherland, Social Justice, Place and LIfelong Education.
His nursery were visiting the Scottish Network for Able Pupils (SNAP) - which is based in the University - as part of a project that had been running across nursery, primary and secondary schools in partnership with West Dunbartonshire Education Authority. This partnership project successfully brought the theory and research expertise of SNAP academic staff, Dr. Margaret Sutherland and Dr. Niamh Stack, together with the extensive applied knowledge of experienced teachers to promote opportunities for challenge in delivering Curriculum for Excellence across all educational sectors.
Secondary pupils disseminated their findings as conference posters at a science fair held on the main campus. During their visit they met Prof. John Briggs who explained his role as Clerk of Senate, highlighting the long history connected with the post and the University, which from his account is more colourful than you might imagine!
Nursery and primary pupils worked with Education staff and curators from The Hunterian Museum. Primary pupils also bumped into Helen-Marie Clayton, Senior International Officer. She told them about her work as another aspect of University life and work that compliments the academic and research work here at the University.
The full project will be evaluated over the coming months but initial feedback from schools, teachers and pupils was very positive and demonstrates the success possible in partnerships between the University and schools in challenging highly able young people and raising attainment and aspirations.
First published: 4 July 2014
<< July