Earth Science Day a resounding success at Callywith College

Over 100 students, from Geology, Geography and Environmental Science at Callywith College packed into the Lecture Theatre this term, for a guest talk from the world-renowned Professor Iain Stewart MBE.

Over 100 students, from Geology, Geography and Environmental Science at Callywith College packed into the Lecture Theatre this term, for a guest talk from the world-renowned Professor Iain Stewart MBE. Professor Stewart who is well known for his work as a TV presenter in Geohazard documentaries, is also the UNESCO Chair in Geoscience and Society and the Director of Plymouth University’s Sustainable Earth Institute.

The TV presenter and academic, inspired and engaged students and staff, sharing his journey and experiences working across the globe in Geoscience. The talk supported students’ knowledge and understanding, building on ideas taught as part of their A Level programmes in Geology, Geography and Environmental Science. The students were excited to have the chance to speak to the Professor after his talk and even take selfies with him!

Iain’s visit to Callywith College was a fantastic addition to Callywith College’s ‘Your Earth, Your Environment, Your Future’ day. The event focused on showcasing careers and opportunities in Earth Sciences around the world.

Callywith College Geology Lecturer Lesley Allen was happy with students engagement at the event, saying:

“The vibrant discussions that were held with Professor Iain Stewart and other exhibitors during the day showed just how engaged our students are with their subjects and their futures.”

The Temple building’s canteen and foyer was filled with exhibitors from local businesses and Higher Education institutes, offering information and advice to students on their futures and where they could take their A Level studies. Businesses included Cornish Lithium and Cornwall Geothermal, who both offer graduate programmes and placement schemes. In addition, staff from the Environment Agency, and Paul Andrews – a local graduate, who currently works as a Hydrographic Surveyor, hosted stalls. Educational institutes included Camborne School of Mines (University of Exeter) and the University of Plymouth. Callywith College’s own Earth Science lecturers were also on-hand to give students a wealth of information about career progression and opportunities in Geoscience.

Second year student Miles Tarrant, who is continuing his study of Geography at the University of Cambridge in September, commented:

“The event was a fantastic opportunity to see the varied careers a degree in Geography or Geology can lead to. The presentation by Professor Iain Stewart linked directly to multiple aspects of our A Level courses and was particularly inspirational to many of us, as his documentaries are used in lectures to complement our study.  The contribution of local projects and organisations really helped to incite interest and enthusiasm in future innovations in the earth sciences field, the foundations of which are being conceptualised in Cornwall today."