Posted: Tuesday 3 November 2009

College to host Science Summit

In line with the Scottish Government’s recognition that science based subjects and their application are a key driver in the future success of the Scottish economy, Kilmarnock College has announced plans host a local Science Summit.

The Science Summit is aimed at raising awareness and improving access to science within the Ayrshire region. Kilmarnock College has undertaken a number of successful initiatives to help broaden access to science within the local community, including this year’s Science Fair, developed to increase primary school pupil’s interest and interaction in science. Furthermore, Kilmarnock College gave secondary school students a lesson on the practical side of science, where they became crime scene investigators for a project in association with the College.

Curriculum Manager, Ursula Hallam, at Kilmarnock College states; “The local Science Summit is the perfect opportunity to open up the subject to potential students and demonstrate the range of vocational progression paths on offer. At Kilmarnock College we have highly qualified teaching staff devoted to all levels of science based courses. In agreement with the government, we realise the importance technology and innovation can play in increasing competition and improving Scotland's economic performance.

It is therefore important that we support and initiate moves to improve access to science, highlighting the benefits of scientific subject areas to potential learners.”

The Science Summit will take place in 2010 involving local schools and industry in an effort to promote all areas of scientific work. Kilmarnock College works closely with schools and businesses to deliver courses from Advanced Higher to City and Guilds Radiation Safety Practice Courses. Additionally, this year’s HND Biomedical Sciences course saw 100% retention and pass rate, with many of the students progressing to Higher Education.

Principal Heather Dunk commented; “Kilmarnock College have an excellent science department and a group of extremely talented staff. We are keen to work with the Scottish Government to increase both awareness and access to science based subjects and the Science Summit is a great way to encourage access and increase knowledge of the wide variety of careers available through science based study.”

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For more information, contact: Angela Bonney, Halogen Communications, (T) 0131 202 0120 (F) 0131 225 3757 (E) angela@halogencom.com

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