"I really love that some of the class (particularly some girls) said they would love to do something with robotics in the future. Exactly what we want to encourage."
About the Inverness Newton Room
An inspirational space for learning how STEM subjects relate to the real world and opening up career possibilities for everyone.
This is a full-time facility hosted at An Lochran at the Inverness Campus. We have recently finished refurbishment works to add a laboratory space next to our teaching room which really opens up the range of experiences for our pupils.
The catchment area includes Charleston Academy, Culloden Academy, Glen Urquhart High School, Inverness High School, Inverness Royal Academy, Kingussie High School, Millburn Academy, Grantown Grammar School, Nairn Academy and their associated primary schools.
Meet your SEO
Tim Ashwell is our STEM Engagement Officer (SEO) in Inverness. If you would like to book your class for a session at our Inverness Newton Room or just find out a bit more about the modules we deliver, email Tim at inverness.newton@gmail.com
Here is a bit of Tim's background...
"I’ve always had a fascination with science. I grew up watching Johnny Ball and I’d watch the Royal Institution Christmas Lectures. My first experience with STEM engagement was with Generation Science in Edinburgh. I have very fond memories of leading groups of children up a giant nostril as I explained respiration in a massive, inflatable lung. I remember their excitement and curiosity when I was describing the changing seasons using a beach ball with a torch strapped to my head. During my time with Generation Science, I visited primary schools throughout Scotland with shows about space, viruses and the human body. Through this I was involved with the Caithness Science Festival and the Edinburgh Science Festival.
My career has taken a variety of twists and turns. For many years I was a chef and ran my own restaurant in Portugal. I have a Masters in Creative writing and I have won awards for writing plays to communicate big ideas. I wrote pieces about Asperger’s syndrome and synaesthesia which were both selected for the National Student Drama Festival.
Fatherhood made me want to move into primary teaching to use what I’ve learnt to inspire a new generation. Throughout my teaching I have tried to make science fun and engaging and planned numerous practical lessons exploring the senses; sound waves and sustainability.
Outside of work, I volunteer for Cubs where I foster my passion for the outdoors. I am also a keen rock climber.
I’m delighted to be working with the Science Skills Academy which combines all my interests with the skills I have learnt over the years. If I can make the children as enthusiastic about STEM as I am then I would be very happy indeed."
" I liked the blood sample because it made me feel like a real doctor."
How to find us
"It taught me about what my future could be like."