Scientists Enjoy Uni Visits

Budding scientists from The Sixth Form College, Solihull have been getting a taste of what they can expect at university in recent weeks with a series of visits to higher education establishments, aimed at assisting them in their progression.

Students visited Wolverhampton University and Nottingham University to take part in practical scientific exercises.

The day trip to Wolverhampton University came first and 11 students attended a Genetics Masterclass, with the object of the day being to add enrichment to the work covered in theory as part of their Double Award Applied Science A Level.

There was a short lecture, which focussed on forensic science and extracting DNA samples from crime scenes, whilst two practicals were also undertaken by students. One was a genetic engineering experiment, in which students introduced DNA into E.coli bacteria to make it resistant to antibiotics. In the other experiment genetic fingerprinting was explored, as students cut DNA using enzymes. The students also enjoyed a tour of the research labs and considered how biotechnology can be applied to products as diverse as food and drink to washing powder.

The trip to Nottingham University was an afternoon event and benefitted 67 students. They attended a short lecture by Professor Martyn Poliakff CBE about the success of his Periodic Table of Videos on You Tube (Martin is brother of Stephen Poliakoff, the acclaimed British playwright).

There was also a short lecture on the opportunities the study of Chemistry can offer, before the students were introduced to the project work that will be carried out back at College. These projects are set by the university and are practical-based. Students will attend weekly practical sessions at College and will also return to the university around Easter to spend a full day of practical work in the university laboratories. The students conclude their practical work at College and produce posters and power points. They then return to the University in June and present their findings to an audience of lecturers and post graduates.

Those students not taking part in the projects instead enjoyed a tour of the university, as well as a Treasure hunt around the School of Chemistry. There was also a ‘Thunder and Lightening’ lecture with a demonstration on explosives!

Chemistry teacher at the College, Trevor Irving commented: "These visits are a great opportunity for our students to gain a valuable insight into science at higher education. The practical sessions in particular were a lot of fun and the students learned a lot. It will also have helped them to decide if continuing their science studies into university is the right choice for them."