STEM

STEM is an education curriculum that focuses heavily on the subjects of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.

STEM at Borders College

The Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Hub is a space to celebrate all of the aforementioned, with a focus on Construction. Within the Hub, there are examples of the latest technology within the industry for use by students, staff and employers. We want the Hub to be an asset to the community as a whole and a space to inspire, educate and innovate.

Technologies within the Hub will include thermal imaging, 3D printing, virtual reality, various construction demonstration jigs and renewable technologies.

With cutting edge thermal imaging technology we are hoping to be able to enrich the skills of our students in plumbing, electrical engineering, construction and to develop an emphasis on renewables. Thermal imaging will also be available to local employers in order to be trained or to use the equipment to enhance their business and expand their skills and services.

Understanding energy efficiency in buildings and how sustainable products and techniques are used in construction is key to reducing Carbon emissions and moving our society to Net Zero. The Eco room and the training on offer will support our students and the local supply chain to build new homes and retrofit existing properties to maximise energy efficiency and use low carbon heating systems.

3D printing is a very useful tool and is the future of manufacturing on an increasing scale. Having 3D facilities available at the Hub can provide the means for local businesses and students to learn about this method of additive manufacturing or to utilise it to make bespoke parts for projects.

These technologies will form the foundation of a STEM Hub that intends to stay and develop at the cutting edge of technology within the construction sector, in line with the needs of the area to make sure the south of Scotland can continue to grow some of its best assets.

Hawick Stem Hub

Eco Room Hawick

The Eco Room is the newly built section of the Hub, utilising a Passive House approach to ensure high energy efficiency, making best use of new materials, superinsulation, triple glazing and solar gain. Passive House design ensures airtightness and creates a space that is self-ventilating. Using the footage recorded from all stages of the build, virtual reality will enable learners to immerse themselves in each aspect of the build and see how different materials are used to maximise efficiency.

Environmental monitoring and thermal imaging will help to demonstrate how the methods used to build the Eco Room differ from more traditional structures. The principles of airtightness can be exhibited using an airtightness testing kit and training can be provided on this to students and local businesses alike.

Renewable Room Hawick 

The Renewables Room aims to facilitate the training of our students, apprentices and local businesses on the latest developments within the renewable energy sector. Accredited training is available for both air source and ground source heat pumps, Solar thermal hot water, Unvented hot water systems and water Byelaws. Consultation with local industry and businesses will help us to focus in on what is best for the region and to support the south of Scotland in being skills rich in the developing field of renewables.

Find out more by getting in touch with Greg Steel at gsteel@borderscollege.ac.uk

STEM Courses at Borders College

STEM Courses at Borders College

Commercial Courses: 

  • Heat pump installer (BPEC)
  • Unvented Hot Water systems & Water Byelaws
  • Drone Awareness
  • Sustainable construction awareness
  • Introduction to Air-tight construction & testing
  • Introduction to Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery
  • Introduction to Thermal Imaging