The University of Aberdeen will this week host four laboratory sessions for students of Advanced Higher Physics as part of an initiative designed to help sixth year secondary school pupils with their studies.
The S6 Enhancement Unit was set up a year ago as part of KEY Learning Opportunities at the University with the principal aim of supporting sixth year pupils studying Advanced Highers. Two subject areas are initially being trialled - Science and Modern Languages - with a range of individual activities and events being organised for the pupils studying these disciplines.
This week's laboratory sessions on optical science are intended to give school students the opportunity to carry out practical experiments that are not always possible in their own school, in addition to experiencing the higher education environment first hand. The Department of Physics has developed the programme with local teachers groups and hosted a similar event with around 20 North-east teachers last month.
Dr John Reid, Head of Physics, a team of research staff and current University students will facilitate the laboratory sessions. Dr Reid explained: "Physics is relevant to so much science and medicine these days that we're glad we can provide the expertise and facilities at the University of Aberdeen to help so many pupils with their careers."
It is expected that over 140 school students and more than 20 North-east teachers will attend the sessions over the four days. Participants will come from local Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire schools, as well as groups from further afield, including Moray, Highland and the Orkney Isles also taking part.
Maggie Eggeling, S6 Enhancement Project Officer, said: "We are very pleased with the positive response to these events and have had to put on an additional event to meet the demand from schools. We are looking forward to welcoming the school students and staff to the University of Aberdeen. We hope that students and teachers will find the laboratory sessions beneficial and enriching."
Further information on the S6 Enhancement Unit and this afternoon's laboratory session, along with photo opportunities is available from Maggie Eggeling, tel: 01224 273670 or email: m.eggeling@abdn.ac.uk