STUDENTS at a Reading College got stuck into some in-person science experiments on Wednesday, November 16.
Two ambassadors from the University of Reading led a food science workshop for students in the college’s GCSE science pathway and health and social care programmes.
Both instructors were fourth year students at the National Centre for Biotechnology Education (NCBE) at the university’s Whiteknights campus.
Pupils took part in a practical investigation entitled The Milk Mix-Up, where they undertook a series of enzyme-based practical tests to distinguish samples of almond, whole and semi-skimmed milk.
Taarika Minhas is studying a GCSE Science pathway at Reading College. She said: “The workshop was really cool. I liked the way they explained everything and that they allowed us to do the experiments rather than just them explaining it.”
After the practical had finished, the two ambassadors gave a presentation on what their course is like.
Shanthi Pandit, faculty manager at Activate Learning, said: “Our students really enjoyed the Food Science workshop.
“It gave them a glimpse into what it is like to study Food Science at the University of Reading and the career opportunities that are available once they have graduated.”
Dr Fiona Lane, of the University of Reading, said: “The National Centre for Biotechnology Education (NCBE) is a small not-for-profit science centre that provides scientific kits and resources to schools and colleges, all with the aim of making science fun and engaging.
“We also run an ambassador scheme, which involves sending final year students from the University of Reading out to schools and colleges to do a practical activity and give
talks on what subject they study and career paths that they can take.
“This was the first time that we ran a workshop at Reading College. It was great to get to use the new lab. The ambassadors who went out for this workshop, study food science and spoke to the students about their previous industrial placements and their career paths after they graduate next year.”
