DALRY'S DSM's partnership with West College Scotland is already boosting the number of young people from disadvantaged areas studying STEM disciplines.

DSM - a global purpose-led, science-based company specializing in nutrition, health and sustainable living - is currently working with sixth year pupils.

The project focuses on developing a pathway to encourage and increase the number of young people from disadvantaged areas within North Ayrshire, Renfrewshire and Inverclyde progressing to study and employment across STEM disciplines.

Aiming to promote careers in STEM, including opportunities within DSM Nutritional Products (UK) Ltd, the partners have engaged with pupils from Vale of Leven Academy to deliver the SSERC accredited three-day Safety in Microbiology course delivered at West College Scotland’s Clydebank campus.

Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald:

The S6 pupils have attended over recent months to complete the short course which covers a range of processes including sub-culturing micro-organisms and record keeping; smear preparation and Gram stain; identification of micro-organisms; disinfection and sterilisation and treatment of spillages and safe waste disposal.

Achievement of the qualification should support the group in their application for STEM subjects at university or to developing a career in STEM.

David Mills, People Partner Operations Dalry said: “DSM Dalry has a long and valued partnership with West College Scotland, in supporting young men and women into a STEM related career, through our award-winning apprenticeship programme where young people learn new skills from our industry experts and are involved in exciting new developments in both science and engineering.

"Supporting STEM engagement programs such as this will continue to play an important and integral part of our business sustainability and employee recruitment strategy.”