\McLaren High
Biology Trip Higher Biology pupils attended a lab based workshop at Forth Valley College to help further their understanding on the techniques involved in PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) and Electrophoresis. These topics frequently come up in exams and so to be able to physically carry out the practical themselves and see what happens at each stage of the process was extremely beneficial to understanding the theory behind it. Students worked in an environment very different to the classroom and worked in full protective equipment such as lab coats, safety glasses and disposable gloves. They were also exposed to equipment not available in school, which is great for those thinking of moving on to a lab based environment whether that be a career in lab, or studying science further at college or university level. Overall, this was an excellent opportunity to all involved and was much enjoyed by students and staff. S1 School of Discovery Trip visited Glasgow Science Centre on November 22 to Pupils participate in a series of STEM and Space activities as their first Unit “School of Space” drew to a close. The 17 pupils, who chose this option when moving into S1, visited the Planitarium for a tour of the stars and our solar system. They also watched the IMAX film about Astronomy entitled “Hidden Universe” as well as exploring the STEM exhibits of the Science Hall. Chemistry Competition McLaren High School’s team competed in the Royal Society of Chemistry’s “Top of the Bench” competition on Thursday, November 22. They did really well working as a team and were competing with other schools from across Stirling, Clackmannan and Falkirk. Duke of York iDEA The Duke of York iDEA is a digital and enterprise version of The Duke of Edinburgh Award in which participants complete a series of challenges to achieve an award at Bronze, Silver or Gold level. For every new skill and learning experience mastered, iDEA participants gain a digital badge worth a number of points. When sufficient points have been accumulated, participants are then awarded their Bronze, Silver or Gold Inspir- ing Digital Enterprise Award. There are badges which can help you to be safe online and pick up tips and techniques on topics such as web design, cyber security, cloud computing, animation and how to use colours in digital creations. Digital skills are all about developing the ability to tell a computer what to do, to make, to build, to get creative and to gain confidence. Enterprise skills set you up for success in the world of work. iDEA helps equip people to be digital workers, makers, entrepreneurs, gamers and citizens of the future. Pupils across our BGE course have signed up for the Duke of York programme and have been working hard to gain their certificates. Catriona Manders, Freya Sherry and Aidan Cronin all exceeded expectations and have gained their Bronze Award already. All pupils involved have shared good practice and helped others finish modules that they have already completed. To achieve a Bronze Award pupils must have gained 250 points through completing the online modules that are worth approximately 10 points each. The modules are categorized into Citizen, Worker, Maker and Entrepreneur.