As a STEM approved college supporting the Scottish Government’s strategy, STEM education sits firmly at the heart of Glasgow Clyde College’s offering.  From hosting SMARTSTEMs events to developing award-winning programmes and introducing new innovative courses, preparing students for a successful sustainable career is central to the College’s work.

As the largest college provider of science courses, the College saw its first graduates last year from its unique Rehabilitation Technologies course. 

John Rafferty, Assistant Principal Health and Wellbeing, said: “The course was specifically designed for technical staff working within orthotics and prosthetics and is the first non-clinical study programme in the UK for the existing workforce.

“Developed in partnership with the British Association of Prosthetics and Orthotists and the Scottish Qualifications Authority, it helps employers fill the skills gap and provide continuing professional development for staff, while learners gain knowledge and skills needed for progression in the workplace.”

Glasgow Times:

As part of the HND in Industrial Biotechnology, an optional employer engagement training programme, managed by the Industrial Biotechnology Innovation Centre in collaboration with the College, raises awareness about future employment opportunities and offers our students the chance to learn from peers and develop networks within industry.  

A quarter of the College’s curriculum now relates to STEM subjects, but it’s not just in the classroom where Glasgow Clyde College’s STEM activity is taking place.

An award-winning community programme, Family Learning in Science was designed in response to parents looking to engage more with their children’s learning. Aimed at widening participation and raising aspirations in some of Glasgow’s most disadvantaged communities, the project covers literacy, numeracy and health and wellbeing.  By completing the programme, parents were awarded a credit rated piece of learning within a science-based subject, for the first time.

The College aims to tackle not only the STEM skills gap, but also the gender imbalance within these subjects by actively promoting careers and opportunities in schools, particularly in construction and engineering. Working with industry partners, schools and the Higher Education sector, colleges can encourage pupils from an early age that STEM subjects offer real life opportunities and exciting career paths.

Glasgow Times:

GoKart challenges, bridge building taster sessions, open days and involvement in school STEM days all help to change society’s preconceptions that construction and engineering is a ‘male only’ path. The College’s Go Girls Construct event attracted pupils from five secondary schools within the Glasgow area which highlighted the ‘hidden trades’ within the sectors.

Although this is a significant start to STEM activity, Glasgow Clyde College acknowledges that there is much more to do. Plans continue to evolve and develop as the need for new skills continue to grow as the ever-changing world of work adapts to our ongoing innovation and changing environment.

To choose from over 100 part-time courses enquire online at www.glasgowclyde.ac.uk