BIR Schools Initiative

The BIR is in the process of developing a new initiative aimed at teachers and schoolchildren:

Aims of the project

1. To motivate and inspire secondary school children to continue studying science.

2. This programme will be catered to meet the aims of the curriculum especially the section called "How Science Works".

3. It will introduce some new ideas and act as a teaching aid to inspire a more dynamic and interactive science lesson.

4. To promote awareness of the work and associated career opportunities in the Radiology sector.

5. To provide stimulating science and employment focussed learning resources linked to the work of organisations in this sector.

6. To provide a high quality vocational experience for young people with potential to work as science professionals in this sector

Project Outline

The programme will provide opportunities, learning resources, careers information, education and support in developing vocationally related skills. It will raise awareness and open eyes to the career opportunities in Radiology. The project will target the next generation of potential science graduates and employees for the Radiology industry.

The programme will include interactive resources and opportunities to introduce young people to the working world of Radiology in an engaging manner including careers, science and work based learning. This programme will provide a unique insight into the wide ranging and varied opportunities available in this sector.

Scenario:
The students will be engaged in a game style scenario over the Internet where they will need to pass challenges and find out information in order to progress their career. The game will begin with the student being a patient and investigating the careers and challenges based at a hospital. Successful completion of this area will open a new level where the student takes on a work experience placement at a UK hospital. Completion of placement challenges will lead to the opportunity of a University course where more challenges await. Only upon graduation can the student take on the final level of becoming a practicing radiologist (there will be supplementary information for other careers including industry).

Challenges will be developed by employees and teaching staff. These will provide insights into the work of the sector, deliver improved science education, and test and develop the personal skills needed to succeed. Some of the content will also demonstrate what happens when the wrong decision is made.

Fundraising

The Institute is in the process of applying for a major grant to enable the project to progress. Individual donations will be welcomed either specifically for the Schools Initiative, or to the more general BIR Education Fund set up to encourage public awareness of radiology, to encourage schoolchildren to consider a career in radiology and to support the provision of information and free BIR Associate Membership to students/trainees in the radiological field.

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