A primary school in Lochwinnoch has received national recognition for its work in science, technology, engineering and maths.
Forest View Primary School has been awarded the STEM Nation Award by Education Scotland. It is the first ASN school across Scotland’s 32 local authorities to receive the certification.
The award recognises the school’s commitment to leadership, family engagement, employability skills, partnership working and equality of access to STEM opportunities. It also highlights the development of a strong STEM curriculum and clear learning pathways for pupils.
Forest View is part of the national child and youth care charity Kibble and provides specialised education for up to 54 children aged between five and 12.
As part of its STEM programme, pupils took part in a Saving Energy Day exercise. They were challenged to reduce their use of technology and use minimal electricity in the classroom to better understand the impact of energy use on the environment.
The exercise prompted discussions around energy use and mindfulness. Pupils said the classroom felt calmer without as much technology.
One pupil said: “The lesson we did without technology was fun and we realised very quickly how much we use energy and technology throughout the day at school.”
Pupils also developed their maths skills by organising and running their own fundraiser. The event included a home baking stall, a nail bar and a temporary tattoo parlour.
With parents, carers and teachers acting as customers, the children managed income and calculated profits as part of their learning.
The school’s STEM journey has been led by STEM Lead Susan Kinnen and built on collaboration between staff, families and pupils.
Jackie Swan, Director of Education at Kibble, said: “This award means a great deal to our staff and children and is a huge accolade for the school. We are committed to offering inspiring and innovative educational opportunities, and the integration of digital technology and STEM has played a vital role in bringing our vision to life.”
Hazel Gardner, Education Officer (STEM) at Education Scotland, said: “It is our pleasure to award Forest View with the full STEM Nation Award. This is a significant achievement for Forest View that reflects the school’s strong commitment to delivering high quality STEM education that is innovative and impactful.”
Forest View Primary School is based in the heart of Lochwinnoch. It supports young people who have experienced trauma in childhood, with pupils attending as day students or living in residential care houses with access to education on campus.
More information about the school is available on Kibble’s website, here: https://www.kibble.org/services/education-services/primary-education/forest-view/.
Photo: A classroom at Forest View Primary School in Lochwinnoch
Photo Credit: Kibble Education & Care Centre
Photo: Susan Kinnen, Teacher, and Liz McDonagh, Education Manager, at Forest View Primary School with the STEM Nation Award certificate
Photo Credit: Kibble Education & Care Centre
Photo: STEM Nation display at Forest View Primary School
Photo Credit: Kibble Education & Care Centre