PUPILS at a remote primary school have been receiving special training to become “science ambassadors” to their families and community.
Under an initiative supported by Business Durham, pupils at rural schools such as Forest of Teesdale are benefiting.
Dr Lorraine Coghill and Dr Jenny Search, from Durham University’s Science Outreach department, were on hand to share their experience and
expertise with the eager pupils.
Teacher and science co-ordinator at Forest of Teesdale Andrew Harrison said: “Originally the session was to be delivered to key stage two pupils, but as we only have nine pupils in total we decided to let the whole school take part.
“Even the younger ones have really enjoyed the day. Sessions like these increase the youngsters’ confidence and improve their presentation skills.”
The sessions are designed to allow pupils to learn about science and then go home and tell their family and friends about it. w Three mentors from Teesdale School – Emily Lawson, Tabi Anstey and Spencer Edwards – were on hand to assist with the practical side of things.
The scheme has so far trained 1,500 young people across County Durham to become science ambassadors.
Dr Coghill said: “By training young people through a series of small scale science activities it allows them to go into their communities and talk about science with confidence.”
