More STEM support for primary pupils in the north-east

North-east primary pupils are getting more help with vital STEM subjects – thanks to a new schools outreach coordinator based at North East Scotland College’s Fraserburgh Campus.

Sara Fairley has been appointed to a new part-time role to support teachers across north-east Aberdeenshire in teaching the vital science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) skills needed for the future.

The role is being supported by offshore wind developer Buchan Offshore Wind as part of an initiative to extend the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI)’s successful STEM Outreach Programme to 31 primary schools in the region.

The UHI STEM Outreach Programme has been operating across the Highlands and Islands, Moray, and Perthshire since 2023, delivering hands-on activities, teacher support, and interactive learning through innovative ‘Discovery’ kits.

Now, with Sara’s help, this proven model is being offered to teachers and pupils in the Fraserburgh, Mintlaw and Peterhead area.

Sara is ideally suited to the role, with a strong background in education and science. A graduate of the University of Aberdeen with a BSc in Zoology and a PGDE in Primary Education, Sara has been teaching in the Fraserburgh and Mintlaw clusters since 2020.

Speaking about her new role, Sara said:

“I'm absolutely delighted to take on this role. STEM subjects open up so many possibilities for young people, and I’m excited to help teachers and pupils across the north-east discover new interests, build confidence, and explore future career opportunities.”

Clare Lavelle, Project Director at Buchan Offshore Wind said:

“This collaborative programme helps young people become curious and engaged in STEM subjects in a practical way – which will hopefully translate into subject choices in secondary school and influence their future career choices.

“The growth of offshore wind in Scotland is creating genuine local employment opportunities that will last for a generation, and it is encouraging to think that many of these young people will have the opportunity to take up roles in our emerging renewable energy sector.”

Dawne Bloodworth, Head of STEM Development at UHI added:

“We are thrilled to welcome Sara to the team. Her appointment strengthens our ability to deliver high-quality STEM engagement across north-east Scotland. Partnerships like this – between education and industry – are vital in nurturing young talent and supporting the region’s economic development.”

Lauren MacAskill, Schools-College Partnership Manager at North East Scotland College said:

“Sara is already having a fantastic impact on the pupils and schools she is working with and we’re excited about the potential of this project. It is a great example of partnership working, with NESCol and UHI collaborating with industry and schools to make a real impact as we aim to inspire the next generation and grow interest in STEM subjects.”

For more information about the UHI STEM Outreach Programme, visit www.uhi.ac.uk/stem