College Staff Member Creates Big Bang!

A staff member from City College Plymouth has been awarded a STEM Ambassador Contribution Award, in recognition for his work.

College lecturer, James Wilson was one of five STEM Ambassadors to receive an award for his outstanding contribution in 2011/12 at this year’s Big Bang South West event held at the University of Exeter, for inspiring young people in science, technology, engineering and maths.

STEM Ambassadors promote their skills to young learners, actively encouraging them to enjoy STEM subjects, and informing them about the unique career opportunities that are available to them.

The Big Bang Fair, which is held annually, provides an excellent opportunity for the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) community to come together to enthuse and inspire young people about careers. Over 50 local and national organisations helped make the event a success. The day finished with a glitzy award ceremony at the University’s Northcott Theatre, where the STEM Ambassador Contribution Awards were announced.

James is in fact a career language teacher currently teaching ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) and EFL at the College. James said:” I feel particularly honoured to have received this award. When I became a part-time teacher in 2006 I had more time to devote to volunteering for the Devon Wildlife Trust, working mainly at the Wembury Marine Centre.

“This work has given me sufficient knowledge in the fields of marine biology and environmental education to be accepted, last year, as a STEM Ambassador. I am able to use my ability to transmit my own enthusiasm for marine biology to young and older people alike, from pre-school to the university of the Third Age!”