GSK helps inspire the next generation
Chemistry careers fair GlaxoSmithKline, Harlow, UK, 2005
 Careers in chemistry were put into the spotlight in November as GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) hosted a careers fair: ‘Chemistry: the next generation’. The CTNG programme aims to promote the excitement and importance of chemical sciences in everyday life and reverse the recent downturn in the number of students applying for chemistry-related courses at university.
As an ‘Aimhigher’ project, CTNG has a particular focus on students from disadvantaged or minority backgrounds as well as schools that are under-represented in higher education. The CTNG programme is being piloted in London, the East Midlands and the North West. Aimhigher schools from London, Hertfordshire and Essex were represented on the day.
The event provided students in years 11 and 12 with an insight into the many exciting and diverse careers opportunities open to those who study chemistry to ‘A’ level and beyond. The event was attended by around 180 students and teachers from local schools in Hertfordshire and Essex in addition to target schools within the CTNG London region.
Companies from industry participating in the day included: Astex Therapeutics, Biotage, Johnston Mathey, independent UK chemical analysis laboratory LGC, Linx Printing, Synthomer, Zeneus Pharma, Thames Water and GSK. SCI, along with the Royal Society of Chemistry, Greenwich University, Imperial College, Kingston University and University College London were represented and provided guidance on educational routes to a career in chemistry.
Budding scientists of the future mixed with prominent VIPs on the day, including Simon Campbell, president of the Royal Society of Chemistry, and Bill Rammel MP, Minister of State for Higher Education. The fair included tours of laboratories giving demonstrations of some of the tools used in the research and development of new medicines, and a competition quiz to win an iPod.
Feedback from teachers and students was extremely positive. Jayne Shaw, CTNG London regional coordinator, said: ‘It was a fantastic day. The buzz of excitement as the coach I was on turned into the site lasted the whole day. I left with comments that could be summed up by one teacher: “We cannot thank you enough. Well done and congratulations to everyone”.’
The day provided students with the vision of where chemistry can lead them and for some of them this could be the first step on that journey.
Schools in the London region interested in participating in similar events should contact Aimhigher on T: +44 (0)20 7679 7460,
E: aimhigherchemistrylondon@ucl.ac.uk.
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