Pupils get a taste of college education
A group of S3 school pupils at Bannockburn High are being introduced to the possibilities of further education at Forth Valley College’s Stirling Campus – thanks to the innovative PASS project.
The project has recently been relaunched after planned activity was disrupted during lockdown.
The new partnership initiative - which stands for Progression Advantage Stirling Schools - received funding from the Scottish Children’s Lottery (Chance to Study) and Police Scotland.
It hopes to raise the aspirations of young people who may be at risk of not engaging at school and widening their opportunities to provide positive options for their educational path as well as improving their confidence.
Initially, the project had started in 2020 but was disrupted due to Covid 19, however a new group of pupils have joined the project and it is hoped it will be able to run as planned - finishing in June 2022.
The young people taking part in PASS will follow a similar type of programme format to the college’s SCOTS students and will receive a range of taster subjects (in areas such as Sport, Care, Hospitality and Art and Design) specifically selected to enhance personal development and raise awareness of their options.
However, the programme will be tailored to the younger age group (S3) and will also have a focus on health/wellbeing, career pathways and volunteering.
Kerry Kay a lecturer in FVC’s Department of Business and Communities, said: “It has been a real joy working with this group and introducing them to lots of what the college has to offer. They recently had a great workshop with Barbara Johnstone from childcare and there are many more adventures to come.
“It has been lovely to see them growing in confidence each week they arrive on campus and they are always happy to try new things and get involved.”
FVC development and fundraising manager Pauline Jackson added: “We were naturally disappointed that activity had to be delayed due to the restrictions, however our funders were really understanding of the situation and we are delighted to now welcome the group from Bannockburn High School.”
Graham Boyce, depute headteacher at Bannockburn High School, said: “The young people have really enjoyed the varied activities and early experience of a college course in their third year of high school.
“We have seen improvements in motivation and engagement with almost all of our young people attending this session and would be very keen to engage with this again, in the future.”
Chief Inspector Gill Marshall, Area Commander, Stirling, Forth Valley Police Scotland, said: “We recognise the impact of partnership working to deliver opportunities for young people, including those interventions away from the school environment.
“The opportunity for local officers to be involved is invaluable in building relationships, breaking down barriers and encouraging personal development.”