Karen Barton

Dr Karen Barton and Dr Jon Wilkin led a four-day programme that welcomed 150 S5 and S6 pupils, along with their teachers, from 15 schools across Scotland. Some groups travelled from as far as Aberdeenshire and the Central Belt to take part. 

The campus visits offered an interactive introduction to Abertay’s Food Science, Nutrition and Wellbeing programmes. Through three practical activities, pupils investigated the science behind food and explored how diet and nutrition can support health and wellbeing. 

Karen, Jon and their colleagues shared their expertise in an accessible and engaging way, encouraging pupils to think more closely about the food they eat, what influences their choices and the importance of a balanced diet. The activities also connected classroom learning in Home Economics with real-world questions about health, wellbeing and future careers. 

Karen said:

Building and maintaining relationships with Home Economics teachers—including our alumni—is important to us. As enthusiastic advocates for Abertay, they help inspire pupils and introduce them to the rewarding study and career opportunities available in Food Science, Nutrition and Wellbeing. Welcoming pupils onto campus and involving them in practical activities brings these subjects to life, builds their confidence and helps them imagine where further study could take them.

The programme strengthened Abertay’s relationships with schools and Home Economics teachers across Scotland, while giving teachers ideas and experiences they could build on in the classroom. These continuing links help extend the impact of the visits and encourage more pupils to consider further study and careers in food, nutrition and wellbeing.