Not all pupils at Glenwood High School, Glenrothes were jumping when they heard the school bell today as all 105 second year students moved their lessons and teachers to the University of Dundee for a day.
In a change to their normal classroom setting the second year pupils heard lectures from University professors and careers advisers in a bid to encourage them to think seriously at a young age about the possibility of higher education. The pupils were treated to an entertaining introduction to University life by Professor Mono Chatterji who has just been appointed Research Co-ordinator for Education and Training for the Scottish Economic policy network by the Scottish Executive and who recently won an award for the most outstanding undergraduate economics course in a UK University.
Paul McAlister (13), a pupil at Glenwood High School said: "University lets you concentrate on subjects you are good at. I'd like to go to University when I leave school and I think Dundee could be a good choice because I like the University and my auntie stays here."
Richard Chang (13) said: "It seems that you get to meet more people at University and you have a lot more freedom than at school."
Ian Marr (13) said: "There is a large choice of subjects at University. It's great that you can try so many different subjects."
Lindsey Rutherford (16), a fifth year prefect who was accompanying the second years said: "This has been a great opportunity to see what life on campus is really like."
Mr Dave Dawson, rector of Glenwood High School said; "Our pupils are told so much about University but today our second years have experienced a real University situation in the lecture theatres and on campus. This will be invaluable as they study for their exams and begin to consider their futures."
This is the first time that a school has transferred venue to a University. Head of the University of Dundee's centre for wider access Dr John Blicharski believes it is a great move to raise pupils' aspirations. "By introducing pupils to a University environment at an early age, we are planting the idea of going to University in their minds before they choose their subjects and sit their standard grades and highers. Seeing University as a realistic option will encourage them to work harder and possibly apply to University when their time comes. We want to take any fear of visiting a University campus out of the equation at an early age.
Today's visit has been very positive. The pupils have had a great time and have seen what facilities and opportunities higher education can offer them."
As well as Professor Chatterji's presentation, the pupils heard a talk on career choices, enjoyed a campus tour and were treated to lunch in the students' association flagship disco venue - Mono.
Contact Dr John Blicharski 01382 344124