Year 12 science learners travelled to Loughborough University to take part in an immersive STEM Day, organised as part of the university’s outreach programme. The day was led by science researchers and post-doctoral students, offering learners hands-on insight into what it’s like to study STEM subjects at university level.

Learners selected two practical sessions from the fields of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, giving them the opportunity to explore areas of interest while developing their subject knowledge and technical skills. Activities included determining the speed of sound using resonance frequencies in acoustics, measuring antibiotic efficacy against E. coli, and analysing caffeine levels in various soft drinks using UV spectroscopy. All sessions were delivered in state-of-the-art laboratories using professional equipment, giving learners a taste of advanced practical work and the expectations of university-level science.

As well as strengthening links to A Level curriculum content—particularly in developing quantitative and investigative skills—the visit allowed students to experience life on a large university campus and interact with scientists working at the cutting edge of research.

Learner Rafid said, "I was really impressed with the facilities in the synthetic labs and how state-of-the-art all the equipment was. We were really lucky to have a chance to use some of it."

Raihan added, "I was fascinated by the chemiluminescence experiment, which created a beautiful glowing turquoise colour from two colourless liquids. It was a great insight into practical chemistry at university."

Adam, Head of Science, commented, "The experiments were all really interesting and well designed. I particularly liked the practical to determine the caffeine concentration in soft drinks using UV spectroscopy. It gave students a chance to apply their quantitative skills in a real-world context, and many of the sessions were led by experts in their field."

This experience gave learners a valuable opportunity to deepen their scientific understanding, explore future academic pathways, and gain inspiration for their ongoing studies.