Ayrshire College’s Science Department is celebrating national recognition after successfully securing competitive outreach funding from the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), supporting the continuation and expansion of its much-loved primary school science workshops across East Ayrshire. 

 

The funding application, submitted at the end of last term by Science Lecturer Derek Walls and Science Technician Shona Frew, was announced as one of just 19 projects funded across the UK – and one of only two successful bids in Scotland. The RSC Outreach Fund supports high-quality, inclusive science engagement initiatives that help inspire the next generation of scientists. 

 

This latest award will enable the College to build on the growing success of its free, hands-on science outreach programme, which targets primary schools in areas of low socio-economic disadvantage. During the 2023–2024 academic year, the programme reached 11 schools and 289 pupils. That figure rose significantly in 2024–2025, with 12 schools and 494 pupils taking part, alongside engagement with two Ayrshire College student groups involving 40 further education learners. 

 

The workshops are led by Derek Walls, a BSc Chemistry with Environmental Science graduate and registered STEM Ambassador, with Shona Frew, also a registered STEM Ambassador, providing organisational, administrative and delivery support. The team is joined by Amy Boyd, an HNC Social Science student, who supports workshop delivery both on campus and in schools. Ayrshire College science students are also encouraged to assist with on-campus sessions, helping them develop confidence, communication and leadership skills through real-world science engagement. 

 

Amy Boyd said: 

Being involved in the outreach workshops has been an amazing experience. It’s really rewarding to help deliver activities that make science fun and accessible for young people, and it’s helped me build my own confidence, communication and teamwork skills. It’s great to feel part of a project that makes such a positive difference in the community, and the experience has also encouraged me to consider furthering my studies towards a future career in teaching.

Schools can choose from two interactive workshops. The ever-popular Crime Scene Investigation: The Case of the Missing Sweets places pupils in the role of forensic scientists, analysing evidence across four investigation stations to uncover which teacher is responsible for stealing the sweets. The Science in Colour workshop explores light, colour and pH, encouraging pupils to question what they see and discover how colour can be created, changed and analysed. 

 

Workshops are delivered either on the Ayrshire College campus in Kilmarnock or directly within participating schools. All activities are aligned with Education Scotland’s Benchmarks for Sciences at Second Level, giving pupils valuable opportunities to carry out practical investigations, analyse results, evaluate evidence and present scientific findings – experiences that are often limited within primary settings. 

 

The project also supports curriculum development within the College. Early Years students benefit from tailored workshops designed in collaboration with Early Years lecturing staff, helping them build confidence and practical skills in delivering STEM activities to younger learners. 

 

RSC funding has been used to purchase consumables to support workshops throughout the academic year, with sufficient materials expected to extend delivery into a further year. The investment also includes Ayrshire College-branded t-shirts and hoodies, pop-up banners featuring both Ayrshire College and RSC branding, and pencil and sticker packs gifted to every participating pupil. 

 

Ged Freel, Head of Learning and Skills – STEM, said: 


Securing this Royal Society of Chemistry outreach funding is a fantastic achievement for our science team and a strong endorsement of the impact they are having in our local communities. These workshops not only inspire young learners to engage with science at an early age, but also demonstrate Ayrshire College’s commitment to widening participation, tackling inequality and creating clear pathways into STEM education.

Reflecting on the award, the team highlighted the importance of national recognition for locally delivered impact. Following confirmation of the grant, Derek Walls joined fellow successful applicants at an online celebration event, sharing good practice and exploring how outreach can continue to inspire future scientists. 

Derek Walls added: 


We’re absolutely delighted to receive this support from the Royal Society of Chemistry. The funding allows us to continue delivering engaging, hands-on science experiences to pupils who may not otherwise have access to this type of practical learning. Seeing pupils develop confidence, curiosity and enthusiasm for science is incredibly rewarding. 

This funding marks a significant boost to Ayrshire College’s commitment to widening participation in STEM, strengthening community partnerships, and inspiring young people to see science as engaging, accessible and relevant to their lives.