Great reaction to university's chemistry event for youngsters
There were flashes, bangs and pops when youngsters donned goggles and laboratory jackets and mixed chemicals during an event to raise awareness about the joys of chemistry.
Pupil Daniel Moriba, from St Paul's Academy, Greenwich, at the chemistry event
Over 60 pupils descended on London South Bank University for an exciting and fun-filled day which included weird and wonderful controlled experiments.
The event was designed around interactive challenges, activities and demonstrations to educate and entertain schoolchildren about chemistry.
Dr Anne-Maria Brennan, Principal Lecturer in the Department of Applied Science at the University, said: "Chemistry is everywhere and is a branch of science that fundamentally underpins our daily lives - it involves the food we eat, the objects around us, the clothes we wear, how we fuel our transport, how our bodies work and the medicines needed when they don't.
"A knowledge of chemistry opens many doors in terms of future careers to young people who study it. It's also fun!"
She added: "We recognise the value of getting youngsters involved in the discipline at an early age and inspiring them to become scientists of the future. After all, they are the ones who will deal with global warming and ensure the prosperity of this country."
Teams of 11-13 year olds from 16 schools around South London, Surrey and Kent were invited to LSBU's state-of-the-art laboratories to take part and compete for prizes. They included Harris Academy, St Michael's Catholic College, and St Saviour's & St Olave's School, all from Southwark.
Youngsters used their analytical chemistry skills to solve a conundrum and enjoyed a practical demonstration entitled
Chemical Magic - which captured key aspects of the subject such as temperature and pressure - designed to amaze, inspire, entertain and educate.
The Salters' Chemistry Festival was brought to the University by The Salters' Institute yesterday (16 May).
Posted: 16th May 2012
