Pioneering Scheme Will See Schools Learn From A9 Investment

The ‘Academy9’ programme will provide students with the opportunity to learn more about the engineering challenges of dualling this vital route.

As the work is stepped up across the programme, there will also be opportunities for training and apprenticeships culminating in the chance to work on the A9 Dualling programme or other major projects.

The Academy9 programme was launched today at Kingussie High School by Keith Brown, Cabinet Secretary for Infrastructure, Investment and Cities.

Mr Brown said:

“Dualling the A9 represents the largest and one of the most challenging infrastructure projects in Scotland’s history – through this pioneering initiative it is also an investment in the next generation of engineers, designers and construction workers.

“The A9 Dualling programme offers a great opportunity to engage and educate with pupils able to apply mathematical, scientific and design aspects of this massive engineering scheme to their schoolwork as well as secure future training and job opportunities.

“Not only will the Academy9 programme offer students the opportunity to learn about the dualling programme and the many challenges involved, it will also provide them with the opportunity of training and apprenticeships with the ultimate goal of getting them ready for a career in engineering.

“We are starting the programme with 9 year olds – the so-called “A9’ers” who are due to leave school in 2025. These students will get design and construction experience which could influence their future career choices. The programme will also be available to older students giving them an opportunity to be trained and work on the A9 dualling programme.

“It’s an exciting time to be involved in work to dual the A9 with construction set to start shortly on the first section between Kincraig and Dalraddy, and design work progressing well across all the other sections.

“Today’s launch shows just one of the many exciting benefits the A9 Dualling programme is delivering for local communities, with more educational, training and employment opportunities expected as the work accelerates.”

Notes to editors

NOTES TO EDITORS

Photographs of Mr Brown’s visit can be requested from Peter Devlin – 07786-808989, peter@devlinphoto.com

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The initial element of the Academy9 programme to run over 2015/16 is:

1. An A9 Roadshow to target secondary and feeder primary schools on the Perth to Inverness corridor. We intend to start with simple activities focussed on the transitional ages of S1/2 where subject choices are made and S4/5/6 where career choices are made.

2. As the programme is further developed, more ambitious initiatives are being developed from 2016/17 in partnership with other organisations such as Perth and Inverness colleges, Perth and Kinross and Highland Councils, Skills Development Scotland (SDS) and Institute of Chartered Engineers (ICE).

ENDS


Published 28 Aug 2015 Tags