In recognition of the importance of science in policy development across its devolved responsibilities, the Scottish Government supports public outreach and educational activities through the Science Engagement grant programme run by the Office of the Chief Scientific Adviser. The key aims of this programme are to help promote better interaction between scientists and the public, to promote science's contribution to our economy and culture, and to inspire our next generation of scientists.

In 2009 SSCN were awarded funding to focus on the production of materials and activities which were taken into schools around Scotland to support pupils in their learning about stem cells in the Science and Moral Citizenship streams of the Curriculum for Excellence. This Roadshow consists of a presentation of the key scientific and ethical issues about stem cells which is delivered by a researcher active in the field. There are then some discussion activities about how stem cell stories are presented in the media and some hypothetical dilemmas for the pupils to assess. A clear theme of the Roadshow is to present the facts in a concise and accurate way and introduce how research is done and what being a scientist in this area means. On this background, some quite challenging ethical issues can be debated, with informed input from the scientists, leading to the pupils learning about the real potential of this research and being able to distinguish this from the hype that often surrounds it.

The pilots have taken place at St Leonard's in St Andrews, Inverkeithing High School and Largs Academy. Pupils and teachers alike have so far responded positively to the lessons. As the piloting phase comes to an end, we are keen to turn the Roadshow into a permanent offering from the Network. If you are keen to be involved, either as a scientist (presenting the lesson) or a school wishing to access the Roadshow, please do not hesitate to contact jenna@sscn.co.uk