The Nuffield Foundation awards bursaries to 5th or 6th year school pupils interested in pursuing a career in science, engineering or mathematics to carry out a project at an industrial or academic institution during the summer vacation. The projects last on average between four and six weeks.

The main aim of the scheme is to give students the chance to experience science in practice. The time and energy that the students invest in these projects is rewarded by a sense of achievement on completion of their given project. They not only gain experience in laboratory procedures but also learn valuable management, interpersonal and communication skills, all of which will provide them with the confidence to pursue their chosen careers.

This year a total of 58 students, 30 host organisations and 41 schools from Shetland to the Scottish Borders were involved in the scheme. Around 50 of the students will be in the Kelvin Gallery at the University of Glasgow on the 28th August to display their research findings to a number of invited guests.

The event is to be opened by Professor Sir Graeme Davies, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of Glasgow University. He will offer encouragement to the students before inviting the guests to visit the various colourful displays. In the afternoon, teams of students and supervisors will be asked to apply their skills to some fun challenges organised by Dr Graham Durant, Deputy Director of the Hunterian Museum.

Media Relations Office (media@gla.ac.uk)

The event is organised by SETPOINT Scotland North who promote science, technology, engineering and mathematics to schools, colleges and the community at large, through a variety of events and activities from their base in Aberdeen.

Information on the schools and organisations participating in the scheme are available from the following contact:

Frances Chapman, Event Co-ordinator, SETPOINT Scotland North Tel: 01224 274191 Fax: 01224 274290 email: f.c.chapman@abdn.ac.uk

You are invited to send a reporter / photographer to the event at 11.00am ? 3.00pm. Please advise the University Press Office on 0141 330 3535 if you are interested in attending.

First published: 20 August 2002