Full-STEM ahead for Colgrain kids

Pupils from Colgrain Primary School in Helensburgh recently spent the day at HM Naval Base Clyde as part of a school-wide Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) project.

On Monday, March 27, six pupils and two teachers from the school visited the Queen's Harbour Master Clyde (QHM Clyde) to learn about how Radar works.

Accompanying the children were Lieutenant Commander Dave Pinder of the Base's Education and Resettlement Centre, who arranged the visit, along with Chief Petty Officer Murray Anderson.

Showing the kids around the QHM "Eyrie" was Ian White, Deputy QHM Clyde who demonstrated how they use Radar to monitor ship's movements within the dockyard port which they manage. 

"We were very glad to welcome the children from Colgrain Primary School to the Naval Base," said Lieutenant Commander Pinder.  "We have been working closely with teachers and local education advisors to help promote STEM and so were keen to help support the school's project."

One of the key themes of the recent Strategic Development Delivery Framework (SDDF) agreement signed between the Naval Base and Argyll and Bute Council is "education and training".

The Base's Education and Resettlement Centre has been participating in joint meetings with local authority educators to develop learning opportunities in the local community.

"Recently I gave a presentation to Head Teachers in the area offering our assistance with STEM," explained Lieutenant Commander Pinder.  "The Royal Navy is recognised for the quality of their outstanding engineers and the Base is happy to give a flavour of that expertise to local schools."

The SDDF agreement was signed on February 27 with signatories committed to working together to deliver infrastructure and opportunities for Royal Navy families and local people.