Merseyside youngsters named Chemists of the Year

Merseyside youngsters with a talent for chemistry have been recognised by LJMU, receiving the title ‘Chemist of the Year.’

The university awarded the accolades to 13 and 14-year-olds as part of Chemistry for All, a national, £1 million Royal Society of Chemistry funded project, which aims to increase school pupil participation in chemistry and raise awareness of the wide range of careers related to the subject.

Six Merseyside schools were chosen by LJMU to take part in Chemistry for All including All Saints Catholic High School in Kirkby, Bebington High Sports College, Broadgreen International School, Cowley International College in St Helens, West Derby School and Woodchurch High School, Birkenhead.

At the end of the academic year, one pupil from each of the school year groups taking part in the project was named ‘Chemist of the Year’, receiving certificates and vouchers at a special celebratory event held at the LJMU.

Teacher of science at Woodchurch High School, Dany O’Connor, said: “This is an absolutely outstanding project. The children have been really engaged throughout and everything is perfectly organised from start to finish.

“The children are now really excited about chemistry. Hopefully we’ve got some chemists who will be hooked for life. It has been a real eye-opener for them and offered them opportunities that wouldn’t have otherwise been available.”

Dr Ian Bradshaw, project leader of Chemistry for All at LJMU, said: “Our aim with the project is to break down barriers which might prevent pupils from considering careers related to chemistry and science, and to make them appreciate that higher education is achievable, show them the paths to get there, and help them feel familiar with working in and with a university.”