DCU School of Chemical Sciences welcomes the scientists of the future
The DCU School of Chemical Sciences (SCS) recently welcomed over 280 second level (fifth and sixth year) students accompanied by their teachers from twenty-two schools to the SCS Chemistry laboratories.
The STEM engagement event ran for four days in order to facilitate the volume of students and teachers visiting the state-of-the art labs at DCU.
Schools came from Dublin, Kildare, Meath, Monaghan, Cavan, Wexford and Galway and even as far away as the Arran Islands.
During their visit the students conducted a variety of prescribed Leaving Certificate Chemistry experiments in the SCS Chemistry labs under the supervision of SCS staff and postgraduates.
The visiting students and teachers also engaged with modern scientific equipment and chemistry techniques not readily available in their schools.
The response from students and teachers was extremely positive indicating that the SCS Chemistry programme is an excellent source of hands–on chemistry for many students while also serving to support students as they approach their final Leaving Certificate Chemistry exam.
Participating teachers also indicated that many of their 6th year students gained extra motivation through experiencing the third level DCU campus environment in advance of their final state exams.
Dr. Pat O’ Malley (SCS ) said:
"The success of this initiative is thanks to the support and assistance of the SCS staff and postgraduates, including committed support from the SCS Head of School Dr. Blanaid White; the dedication of the SCS technical team and in particular John McLoughlin and Veronica Dobbyn; and with much appreciated assistance from the Faculty of Science and Health and in particular Grace Hickey".
"The dedication and skills of the SCS postgraduates is central to the success of this programme which helps to inspire the next generation of Science undergraduates".
Pictured: Chemistry postgraduate Lauren Kearney demonstrating chemistry skills and techniques to Leaving Certificate students from Ashbourne Community College.