D&G School Pupils Enjoyed a “Taste of their Future” at Barony

Over 50 Dumfries and Galloway school pupils enjoyed the opportunity to try out different practical tasks at the “Taste of Your Future” event that was held at the Barony Campus of Scotland’s Rural College.

From tractor driving, handling reptiles, grooming dogs and bandaging to forestry harvesting simulator and building an electric circuit – pupils and teachers from nine local secondary schools made full use of the opportunity to sample life as a student on campus.

SRUC’s own students also gave the pupils the benefit of their knowledge learned on their course and explained what they do on a typical day at college.

Robert McHarrie from Stranraer Academy tried out the Agriculture and Engineering courses. He said: “I found the experience really good. It was great that it was hands on, you weren’t just watching people do things, you got the chance to try practical tasks for yourself. The students on the course were very helpful in explaining what they do on the course and answering any questions.”

Pamela Wells, Principal Teacher of Pupil Support from Kirkcudbright added: “This is the third trip Kirkcudbright Academy have been involved with the Barony. It has been invaluable for pupils to be aware of the diversity and range of pathways that the campus offers our young people.

Taking part in the “Taste of your Future” event gives pupils the time and experience to see the departments they are interested in perusing. Being able to see the work spaces and talk directly to the tutors enriches the pupils understanding of studying here.  I hope this partnership working with the college and schools continues to grow.”

Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC), Leading the way in Agriculture and Rural Research, Education and Consultancy.

Scotland’s Rural College supports innovation and sustainable development in agriculture and the rural sector in Britain and internationally. We are one of the UK’s leading agriculturally-focused higher education institutions, offering a unique blend of research, education and consultancy.

SRUC’s research and education activities operate from six campuses and eight farms and research centres across Scotland. Our consultancy arm, SAC Consulting, supports more than 12,000 farms and rural businesses across the UK from 25 consultancy offices and eight veterinary disease surveillance centres.

SRUC was established in 2012 through the merger of Barony, Elmwood, Oatridge Colleges and the Scottish Agricultural College (SAC).