Education

DGC Joinery Student Advances to National SkillBuild Final

DGC Joinery Student Advances to National SkillBuild Final

A joinery student from Dumfries and Galloway College (DGC) has achieved a remarkable feat by winning the regional SkillBuild qualifier. Oran Palmer, a first-year apprentice from Hainey Construction, secured the top spot in the Joinery category at the competition held at Edinburgh College in June. This victory has earned him a place in the prestigious national SkillBuild final, where he will compete against the best in the country. The competition, organized by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), is known for showcasing the brightest talents in the construction industry. A Triumph in the Regional Qualifier Oran Palmer’s journey to the…
Read More
Unseen Battles: The Rising Violence in Scottish Schools

Unseen Battles: The Rising Violence in Scottish Schools

The tranquility of Scotland’s educational landscape is marred by a troubling surge in violence, casting a shadow over the safety and well-being of students and teachers alike. The Escalating Crisis In the serene halls of learning, a storm brews as over 10,000 incidents of violence in Scottish schools have been reported. The first paragraph would paint a vivid picture of the current situation, drawing from the stark numbers that reflect a growing concern. The second paragraph would delve into the personal accounts of those affected, bringing to light the emotional and physical toll of such incidents. The third paragraph would…
Read More
Royal Rites: The Unique Traditions of St. Andrews

Royal Rites: The Unique Traditions of St. Andrews

Prince William and Kate Middleton’s alma mater, St. Andrews University, is steeped in history and unique traditions. From the iconic red gowns to the May Dip in the chilly North Sea, the university experience for these royal alumni was anything but ordinary. Academic Attire with a Twist The red gowns at St. Andrews are not just a splash of color against the grey stone of the ancient university buildings; they are a symbol of academic tradition and student unity. These gowns, once a deterrent against illicit tavern visits, now mark significant moments in a student’s journey, from matriculation to graduation.…
Read More
Scotland’s Landscape Academy: Cultivating Skills for a Greener Future

Scotland’s Landscape Academy: Cultivating Skills for a Greener Future

Scotland’s Landscape Academy has recently celebrated the success of its inaugural training courses, marking a significant milestone in the country’s commitment to nurturing talent in the landscaping sector. The academy’s debut in Scotland, hosted by Edinburgh-based St Andrews Timber & Building Supplies, has been hailed as a triumph, setting the stage for future educational endeavors in the field. Pioneering Education in Landscaping The Landscape Academy’s venture into Scotland was met with enthusiasm and praise from participants and hosts alike. The two-day event, held at St Andrews’ West Lothian base, featured a seminar on pricing and quantities, providing valuable insights into…
Read More
Highland Schools Illuminate the Path to Net Zero

Highland Schools Illuminate the Path to Net Zero

In the heart of Scotland’s majestic Highlands, a transformative initiative is underway, casting a new light on the path to environmental sustainability. A consortium of Highland schools, in partnership with the Mears Group and Alpha Schools, has embarked on an ambitious journey to reduce their carbon footprint, embracing the power of LED technology to pave the way to a net-zero future. The Spark of Change The project’s inception can be traced back to Millburn Academy in Inverness, where the first flickers of change were ignited. Here, a pilot program demonstrated the profound impact of switching to LED lighting, not just…
Read More
Bridging the Gap: Scotland’s Innovative Program to Reintegrate STEM Professionals

Bridging the Gap: Scotland’s Innovative Program to Reintegrate STEM Professionals

In an ambitious move to address the skills shortage in the engineering sector, Scotland has launched a pioneering program aimed at supporting STEM professionals seeking to re-enter the industry after a career break. This initiative not only promises to fill the current talent void but also champions diversity and inclusion within the field. A Fresh Start for STEM Experts The program, spearheaded by PD&MS Group in collaboration with STEM Returners, offers a unique ‘returnship’ that provides real work experience and mentoring. Participants, regardless of the length of their career hiatus, are welcomed into a fully paid 12-week placement, designed to…
Read More
Empowering the Next Generation: The Vital Role of Human Rights in Special Education

Empowering the Next Generation: The Vital Role of Human Rights in Special Education

In an era where education is the cornerstone of progress, the importance of upholding human rights within the realm of special education cannot be overstated. The journey of young individuals with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND) is not just about academic achievements; it’s a broader quest for dignity, equality, and the fulfillment of their potential. The Legal Landscape The legislative framework surrounding SEND is robust, anchored by the Children and Families Act 2014, the Equality Act 2010, and the Children Act 1989. These laws collectively ensure that children with SEND are entitled to an education that caters to their…
Read More
Glasgow faces backlash over plan to cut 172 teaching posts

Glasgow faces backlash over plan to cut 172 teaching posts

Glasgow City Council is facing criticism from teachers, parents, and unions over its proposal to slash 172 teaching posts across its primary and secondary schools. The council says the move is part of an education service reform that aims to save £27.8 million over three years, as it grapples with a £107 million budget deficit. Education service reform or budget cuts? The council claims that the education service reform is not just about cutting costs, but also about improving outcomes for pupils, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. It says it will invest in digital learning, curriculum development, and staff training,…
Read More
Degree apprenticeships: a missing link in Scotland’s skills system

Degree apprenticeships: a missing link in Scotland’s skills system

Scotland is facing a skills gap that could hamper its economic growth and competitiveness, according to a new research by the University Vocational Awards Council (UVAC). The study reveals that over a fifth (22%) of the UK’s top 100 universities do not offer degree apprenticeships, a work-based route to higher education that combines academic learning with practical training. What are degree apprenticeships and why do they matter? Degree apprenticeships are a relatively new form of education that allow students to earn a bachelor’s or master’s degree while working for an employer. They typically last between three and six years and…
Read More
ScotlandIS Scholarship: A New Initiative to Support Young Tech Talent

ScotlandIS Scholarship: A New Initiative to Support Young Tech Talent

ScotlandIS, the national voice of the Scottish tech sector, has announced a new partnership with Saturday School Ltd, a tutoring organisation, to launch The ScotlandIS Scholarship. The scholarship is aimed at empowering young people from Glasgow and The West to shape, change and drive Scotland’s digital economy. What is the scholarship about? The scholarship will support 12 ScotlandIS Scholars from Glasgow and The West in securing their National 5 Maths qualification. This support includes six weekly lessons in National 5 Maths at Saturday School in The Glasgow Academy, attendance at The National 5 Maths Grade Booster Day to prepare for…
Read More