North Ayrshire Council has committed to investing in STEM education to build upon the successes achieved by the Raising Aspirations in Science Education (RAiSE) programme.
The newly created STEM Coordinator role will be responsible for leading the region’s approach to STEM learning across education settings and within the wider community.
Tim Dreyer, who was the RAiSE Primary Science Development Officer (PSDO) in the region for two years, has been appointed to the position. He will lead the strategic development of STEM. His remit has expanded to include secondary schools and family engagement in STEM. He said:
“I am delighted to be in a position to build upon the work we have already established in North Ayrshire, further embedding STEM learning and collaboration with our schools and realising the wealth of opportunities for STEM in the area.
“The Regional Skills Assessment by Skills Development Scotland forecast of a requirement of 4200 STEM jobs in Ayrshire. This supports our commitment to establishing a robust strategic vision to ensure North Ayrshire pupils are well supported into STEM career pathways.”
During his tenure as PSDO, Tim supported the Young STEM Leaders programme which was recognised as an example of best practice nationally. He developed a STEM skills framework, supporting the transition of pupils into the later primary stages.
A framework will now be developed to support young people moving from early years learning to primary, focussing on the role of outdoor learning in STEM. The Young STEM Leaders opportunity will also be expanded with target cluster groups, focussing on the role of STEM as a context for literacy and numeracy.
The authority is also set to appoint team members to lead upon outdoor learning and Learning for Sustainability who will work closely with Tim.
Angela Cassells, Senior Manager in Communities and Education at North Ayrshire Council, added:
“RAiSE is a vital investment in North Ayrshire, supporting our teachers to deliver exciting STEM learning experiences which really engage our children. Developing STEM skills is a real driver in North Ayrshire, to develop the local workforce of the future. There are a great many opportunities and expanding Tim’s position will support us in realising this potential.”
RAiSE is a programme of The Wood Foundation, Scottish Government, Education Scotland, and participating local authorities. A two-year investment sees PSDOs appointed in local authorities to lead upon improving the confidence, skills, networks, and partnerships of primary school teachers to deliver motivating and engaging STEM experiences. RAiSE has engaged half of Scotland’s local authorities and led upon more than 50,000 hours of professional learning.
Contact Tim to find out more about the support and opportunities he will continue to offer in North Ayrshire.