Students from the University of Aberdeen, Robert Gordon University, and Aberdeen College have successfully completed the BP Tutoring Scheme, a 14 week volunteering experience as student tutors in primary and secondary schools throughout Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.
A total of 82 students from the three institutions took part in the scheme, which aims to improve education in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire – 34 students from the University of Aberdeen, 37 students from Robert Gordon University, and 11 from Aberdeen College.
The students were presented with certificates of participation from Liz Gillies, a representative from Aberdeen City Council on behalf of their institutions and the scheme sponsors BP, Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen City Councils.
As Chair of the BP Student Tutoring Steering Group, Peter Fantom, Head of the Careers Service at the University of Aberdeen said: “This scheme is a fantastic example of collaboration between industry, local authorities, the University of Aberdeen, RGU and Aberdeen College.
“The students are all volunteers who are willing to give up their time during their academic studies to assist classroom teachers and pupils. The scheme continues to deliver on its stated aims of giving students valuable classroom and career experience.”
Third year Economics and International Relations student, Milena Stawicka commented: “Although I have never thought about a career in teaching before, I really enjoyed helping the kids with maths. They showed me a different point of view, which encouraged me to work on my creativity. I had a lot of fun, and I hope the kids did too!”
Gayle Scott, Careers Consultant at the Robert Gordon University said:“The students this year have again shown great commitment and dedication to the scheme, have gained valuable, practical hands-on experience and for many it has confirmed that teaching is a potential career opportunity for them”.
Rosanna Garden, a third year Visual Communication thoroughly enjoyed her placement at Westhill Academy and said: “The scheme has allowed me to feel positive about having a career in Secondary Education. It has given me the confidence & belief that I could become an Art Teacher.”
Maggie Eggeling, BP Education Co-ordinator said: “The BP Student Tutoring Scheme is one way of enhancing the educational experience of young people. By participating, students enhance their own skills, develop young people and are a valuable additional resource to the teacher in the classroom”.