South West College Unveils new 'STEM' Learning Centre
South West College opened the doors to the first dedicated Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) teaching facility and exhibition space in Northern Ireland on Wednesday the 9th March at the College’s Dungannon Campus.
The new £700,000 state-of-the-art centre in Dungannon aims to encourage enthusiasm for science-based careers and features the latest in innovative learning technologies including a 3D visualisation suite, touch screen television and 30 iPads pre-loaded with educational applications.
Led by a team of qualified STEM experts, the stylish learning environment hosts a range of curricula-compliant activities that challenge students to apply STEM skills to exciting scenarios including crime scene investigation and designing fashion magazines.
Speaking to an audience of staff, students and local representatives from business and schools, at the event Minister for Employment and Learning, Danny Kennedy MLA said:
“This innovative facility is a magnificent achievement for South West College and a landmark for STEM education in Northern Ireland. The resources and expertise at the centre will actively enrich the teaching of important subjects and give students the chance to ignite a passion and excitement for scientific discovery.
“This is a great example of how Northern Ireland is creating new pathways to help put young people on course towards important and industrially relevant careers and ultimately enhance our economic competitiveness.”
The centre has been developed in partnership with international STEM specialists and industry representatives. It is planned that the new facility will accommodate up to 40 school pupils and college students per activity.
College Director Malachy McAleer said:
“The STEM Centre is about the ‘wow factor’ back into science subjects. From making animated movies, piloting robots or cracking crime cases with forensics, this centre offers exciting real-life challenges that students can relate to and learn from.
“We’ve researched and developed our facilities and resources to ensure that they are counted amongst the world’s best. Importantly, we’ve invested time to find and staff the STEM Centre with specialists and who understand the needs of local students, teachers and industry.
“I have every confidence that their creativity and expertise will help all visitors to realise the wealth of careers and rewards that exist through excellence in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths.”
The STEM Centre is open from Monday-Friday 9am-5pm and its services and resources are available to all schools and colleges in Northern Ireland.
To contact the centre or to arrange a booking log on to www.stemcentreni.com or call 028 8225 5233.
