Cell Block Science (360G-Wellcome-200999_Z_16_Z)

Funding is sought to facilitate the delivery of a programme of public engagement with science activities in the prison learning centres of HMP YOI Cornton Vale and HMP Shotts. Activities will be designed and delivered by scientists from the Biomedical Sciences Research Centre (BSRC), St Andrews University with assistance from their public engagement officer, Mhairi Stewart. The BSRC is uniquely placed to cover many STEM subjects including Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Medicine. The programme will launch with Univeristy of St Andrews researchers visiting the prison learning centres and the establishment of a science library in the centres. The project officer (to be appointed) along with the named applicants will use these visits to evaluate the areas of most interest and widen the programme to include a series of science based projects delivered at differing levels of challenge that prisoners can undertake in the prison environment. Our aims are to engage prisoners with STEM subjects and provide opportunities for skill development including problem solving, communication skills, independent learning, and teamwork. Researchers will receive communication skills training and practice through the programme. This project will also contribute to knowledge on best practice in informal science learning within prison environments.