.png)
%20(1).png)
News Release, 23 June 2023
​
Grangemouth Flood Protection Scheme launches free STEM learning resources for secondary schools
​​
The Grangemouth Flood Protection Scheme (GPFS) team has launched a bank of free learning resources as part of phase two of its STEM Education Programme, which aims to inspire the next generation of original thinkers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
The learning materials, which were successfully trialled at a series of events at the 2023 Falkirk Science Festival last month, are targeted at secondary school pupils from across the local scheme area. They have been designed to support the teaching and learning of STEM based subjects and help cultivate ambition.
Councillor Paul Garner, spokesperson for Economic Development said: “As part of the GFPS STEM Education Programme, free resources have been designed to support the teaching and learning of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects.
“These materials, which include an interactive board game, will help young people from local schools across the GFPS area, develop the necessary skills and knowledge for exciting and fulfilling future careers.”
In September, teachers from Grangemouth High School will be using the full suite of materials to run a whole year group interdisciplinary STEM day to help broaden their S2 pupils’ career horizons before they make their subject choices later in the year.
The GFPS STEM Education Programme, developed by consultants Jacobs in conjunction with Falkirk Council’s Children’s Services, aims to bridge the gap between school, higher education, and industry by helping to equip young people with the skills required to adapt and thrive in this fast-paced, ever-changing world.
As part of phase one of the programme, local primary schools and youth groups were given the opportunity to learn more about the devastating effects of flooding and the wide variety of careers involved. The children then worked together in groups, each taking on a different role, to research flood protection solutions before selecting the best option and presenting to a panel of industry experts.
Click here to download the learning materials. If you have any additional questions about the STEM Education Programme, please contact grangemouthfps@falkirk.gov.uk.
Picture caption 1: Participants had the chance to design their very own house of the future, creating protective measures against potential flooding events.
Picture caption 2: One of the future houses equipped with flood defence strategies.
Picture caption 3: The boardgame in action, showcasing the various mitigations, risks, and successes of building flood defences.
Picture caption 4: Participants’ problem-solving skills were put to the test on an outdoor obstacle course.
Notes to editors:
As the largest flood defence project in Scotland and one of the biggest in the United Kingdom, the Grangemouth Flood Protection Scheme was identified as the highest national priority given the potentially significant impacts for the community if an extreme flood event were to occur. While other parts of Scotland have been affected by flooding over the last five years, the Grangemouth area has fortunately avoided significant flooding. However, the town and surrounding communities are at risk of fluvial and coastal flooding impacts.
On completion, the scheme will protect 5,800 people, 2,650 homes, 330 businesses and road and rail infrastructure. It will also provide 28km (17 miles) of flood defence walls, embankments, the installation of flood gates, flow regulation measures and drainage work. The scheme will also include works at the entrance to the Port of Grangemouth and within the petrochemical complex.
Falkirk Council is determined to provide better protection for the town and surrounding areas and is working with its consultant Jacobs to design, plan and deliver the new flood defences.
​​
Further information is available on www.grangemouthfloodscheme.com.
​
Follow us on twitter and Facebook @grangemouthfps.
For more information please contact:
Julie Pirone
Communications and Stakeholder Manager, Jacobs
julie.pirone@jacobs.com
07711 446358
David Grindlay
Communications Team Leader, Falkirk Council
david.grindlay@falkirk.gov.uk
07803 898008