Westminster Cavendish Living Lab students welcomed Year 9 pupils from Bow School to provide insight into studying higher education at the University’s School of Life Sciences. They hosted an informative seminar and Q&A session before introducing them to sustainable agricultural practices through an interactive lab session.
On 19 March, around 30 Year 9 pupils from Bow School visited the University of Westminster Cavendish Campus to learn about studying Life Sciences and sustainability in higher education. The session was run by the University’s Greener Futures Student Outreach Leaders as part of the Greener Futures Fund project, which aims to deliver interactive workshops on sustainability to school children in London.
The day began with an informative seminar led by final year Biological Sciences BSc Honours students Mehseen Ullah and Aisha Tahliil, who shared with the pupils their academic journeys. This included why they chose Westminster, their favourite modules and their achievements so far. Pupils then had the opportunity to ask questions about studying at university, which provided them with first-hand insight into university life and answers to any queries they might have when considering higher education.
About the Q&A session Mehseen said: “The children were very enthusiastic and asked many questions about university life and the work we do. It was a joy to answer and to find out what kids their age think about in regard to university, education and lab work.”
Pupils then participated in an interactive lab session which introduced them to the fundamental ways scientists are tackling agricultural issues related to climate change. Students created their own synthetic seeds and observed them under a microscope, before being introduced to 3D printing in a demonstration by PhD researcher in Biology Soumya Sharma.
About the lab session Soumya said: “Preparing and delivering the lab session for students was an exciting and fulfilling experience. Demonstrating sustainable practices in science through the creation of synthetic seeds was truly rewarding. The excitement on their faces as they observed the seeds under a microscope was thrilling. Additionally, introducing them to 3D printing and its applications in life sciences was engaging.”
Second year Biochemistry BSc Honours student and Greener Futures Leader Nellmah Sahar added: “Seeing the Year 9 students excited during the lab session and proud of their achievements made me realise just how valuable these sessions are. They not only help students build confidence in their abilities but also show them that they can thrive in a higher education setting while genuinely enjoying the experience."
About the Greener Futures Fund partnership Jules Attanayake, Development Officer for Trusts and Foundations at the University of Westminster, said: “Pupils from partner schools learn new techniques and have the chance with this outreach to work with materials not found in schools, giving them insights into areas of work and study that they might consider in the future. The pupils’ school education is enhanced to align with the objectives of the National Curriculum, aspirations and knowledge on routes into higher education are heightened, and areas for future employment are expanded on. Thanks to The Greener Futures for providing the funding to make this possible.”
This project directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
To find out how to sponsor the Cavendish Living Lab email the University's Development Team.
Find out more about Biological and Biomedical Sciences courses at the University of Westminster.
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