Pupils and teachers from local high schools visited Forth Valley College’s Falkirk Campus recently (Thursday 16 March) to find out more about a new cutting edge qualification.
The information event centred on the recently developed HND Industrial Biotechnology course and provided information on potential careers and employers. In the main hall two speakers from the industry gave a talk to the young people and tours of the college’s impressive mini-rigs and distillation workshops – live experiments included – showed off FVC’s facilities and inspiring staff. A representative of the Industrial Biotechnology Innovation Centre (IBioIC) was also available to provide information.
Gregor Hancock (17) an Alva Academy student, said: “This new HND looks very exciting and would be something I would consider applying for.”
Jason Lockwood (17) also from Alva Academy, said: “I am not sure what I want to do, but this is very interesting.”
Natalie Gentles (16) also from Alva Academy, added: “I am only in fifth year right now and just having a look, though this sounds good.”
Mhairi Hay Curriculum Manager in FVC’s Department of Electrical, Instrumentation and Chemical Engineering, said:
“It was great to see the senior school pupils really engage with our event today. Industrial Biotechnology is a growing sector and one of the key areas for development and growth over the next few years. The industry uses natural sources and waste products to generate a range of products and the science involved is varied and diverse. Most of the companies are smaller but the industry does include Glaxo Smith Kline and Ingenza.
“As a college we have worked closely with the SQA, industry and IBioIC to develop an HND that will provide candidates with the skills to either work directly in the industry or progress to suitable degree programmes.”