About the Scottish Space School

The Rationale

Science and technology play a large part in all our lives and in the economy of Scotland, and the Space School seeks to inspire the next generation to pursue science related courses of study, and consider careers in science and technology.

The Objectives

• Provide inspiration, increase motivation and raise aspirations of young people in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM)
   
• Encourage more students to study science related courses at Standard Grade, Higher Grade and University
   
• Promote the wide range of career opportunities in science and technology
   
• Increase self-confidence through the development of high quality communication, team-building and problem solving skills

The History

From 2002 to 2008 the Space School was funded and managed by Careers Scotland with support from partner organisations in Scotland and the international space community.  During that period c 1100 pupils from high schools across Scotland have participated in twelve space camps at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas,  and eight  summer schools at Strathclyde, Glasgow and Edinburgh Universities, enjoying an eclectic mix of lectures, labs and workshops led by top scientists and engineers from NASA/ESA and academia.

This quote is typical of several hundred from pupils who have attended Space School:

“The Space School has completely transformed my outlook on life and my future, and I now feel a career in science and technology is within my grasp.”

A student from Space Camp, Houston, January 2005

Skills Development Scotland continues to support the Scottish Space School  in partnership with others, notably the University of Srathclyde.

The Scottish Space School is open to S 5 pupils in all Scottish schools.