A scheme to take pupils on a space journey has blasted off in Moray and across Scotland and the application deadline for the Careers Scotland Scottish Space School 2008 is now zooming up.

Students in S4 with a keen interest in science and technology are encouraged to speak to their science teachers who will explain how they can apply for a place on the programme before 28 February. 

From the initial applicants, 300 pupils from across Scotland will be invited to join the Space School 2008 programme.  This involves completing six NASA modules and attending a 1-day workshop over the summer months.  At the end of October, students who have attained the required standard will be offered one of 50 places at the Careers Scotland Space Camp in Houston, Texas, or one of 150 places at a science based residential summer school.  

This year, for the first time, Careers Scotland will be running two summer schools - one jointly at the Universities of Strathclyde and Glasgow, and one at Edinburgh University.  These summer schools are supported by NASA and a group of 20 or more NASA engineers, scientists, astronauts and other specialists will join university staff in presenting the Space School Programme.  

Pupils who have recently returned from this year's space camp in Houston are Christina Samson from Keith Grammar School and Nicola Young from Elgin Academy, along with four other pupils from the Highlands and Islands.

Also just back from Houston is Rob Tyson, Careers Scotland Space School Co-ordinator for the Highlands and Islands, based in Elgin.  He said:  "Space School is a partnership initiative between the Scottish Executive, Careers Scotland, and NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) to inspire and motivate young people of all ages to study science and consider careers in science and technology. It gives them an extraordinary insight into the world of engineering and science. The Space School experience is a truly remarkable one - for those attending, it does inspire and motivate and much more."

One of many highlights for the pupils at Houston was a talk given by Gene Kranz, who commanded the operation that saw Apollo 13's safe return to earth. This was followed by watching the film in the old Mission Control where it happened.

Astronauts and scientists visit Scottish schools during Careers Scotland's annual Festival of Science and Enterprise and speak to S1 pupils to inspire them to study Standard Grade science subjects and mathematics.

NASA astronauts and scientists also visit primary schools and high schools, assisting in science lessons for older pupils and explaining to them that with talent and determination, it is possible to carve out a career in whatever field they choose. 

Careers Scotland advisers are available weekdays at the Elgin Careers Scotland centre to help people of all ages make career decisions and find work and learning opportunities.

In the Highlands and Islands, Careers Scotland is part of the HIE network