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Year 8 Careers Fortnight – Chemistry at Work 2017

Before half term, Penryn College hosted a Chemistry at Work event as part of our year 8 careers fortnight.

The event is one of a number being held throughout the UK which aim to introduce students to their local chemical industry.

A wide range of companies and organisations were represented including: Cornwall College, Rick Stein and Jill Stein – The Seafood Restaurant, 3D Kernow, Falmouth Marine School, Plymouth University and the University of Exeter. They demonstrated how chemistry learnt in school is used by a variety of people in their work.

Year 8s were shown the applications of chemistry through short talks and interactive presentations. Each student had the opportunity  to ask questions and take part in the experiments and activities.

“The event should give you lots of ideas and examples of how chemistry and science is used in everyday life” – Dr Beth Anderson, RSC Regional Coordinator Chemistry at Work.

In Pictures

Cornwall College were on hand offering careers advice to the year 8s.

Experiments were led by Falmouth Marine School

Students simulate an oil clean up operation with the Marine School.

Cornwall College let the students experience virtual reality games.

Chemistry is used in all kinds of careers and is essential to many, including catering as demonstrated by a Chef from Rick Stein’s seafood restaruant.

The University of Exeter demonstrated some of the studies they carry out, from renewable energy to bioscience.

A 3D printed frog created by Louis Turner from 3D Kernow.

Students also got to make their own sculptures using 3D pens! Sam created this impressive structure.

Dylan Reynolds was an enthusiastic volunteer as representatives from Plymouth University guided him through some surgery.

Thanks to Cornwall Education Business Partnership for co-ordinating this with us and to the Royal Society of Chemistry who sponsored the event.