School Works
01 June 2010
Over 1,000 local pupils have been taking part in the School Works Project at Cardonald College Glasgow. The project illustrates how skills learned at school, particularly in maths, science and communications are essential in the workplace.
Every Monday and Friday for six weeks, first year pupils from schools all over Glasgow are invited to attend the half day-event, including St Margaret Mary's, pictured above. Lecturers created interactive and innovative demonstrations in Renewable Energy, Bricklaying, Joinery, Thermal Energy, Fashion and Music Technology, applying the knowledge and concepts learned at school. The project is also useful to teachers who observe the practical application of concepts in their subject area which they can then refer to in later lessons.
School Works was launched in 2007 and grown more popular year on year. Director of Enterprise and International Development, Duncan McDougall states: "Having worked in vocational education for more than 25 years, it's amazing how many new learners to the world of work and vocational training say, ‘I wish I had listened to this when I was at school', when they realise that concepts covered during their school years in science, IT, maths and communications have direct relevance to their chosen occupation."
Former Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning, Fiona Hyslop MSP added: "This is a very promising example of a college collaborating with schools to enhance the skills of young people, whilst also focussing on the knowledge that will be needed to succeed in later life."
For more information on the project, contact Alastair MacLeod on amacleod@cardonald.ac.uk