Newton Room in Thurso is first of its kind in UK
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WITH the opening of the UK's first Newton Room, Thurso can truly say it is at the forefront of advancing education in the sciences.
The unveiling of a plaque in North Highland College UHI on Monday by Scottish Government minister Richard Lochhead heralded the launch of a space specifically designed to encourage young people into careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (Stem).
"This is the first facility of its kind to open in the UK and reflects Scotland’s position as a pioneer in Stem," said Mr Lochhead, the minister for further education, higher education and science. "It is important that we engage and involve people from all walks of life and at all ages to develop Stem skills and knowledge in our rapidly changing world, to enrich their lives and benefit the Scottish economy."
The idea behind the learning centre comes from a Norwegian model that was recognised by Science Skills Academy director Andrew Johnston as a way to enthuse children in Stem and "show opportunities for future employment".
He said: "It is about making science fun but there's also a lot of rigour involved and the children will come away knowing much more about the maths behind these experiments."
Mr Johnston, a former science teacher, went to Norway to research the Newton Rooms already well-established there. "I thought 'wow, I wish I had one of these rooms when I was teaching'."
"Caithness has been at the forefront of scientific and technological advances in Scotland for more than 60 years and this facility will help it stay there. The centre will aim to inspire young people across the whole of Caithness and north Sutherland who are interested in Stem subjects."
