March/April 2004
Research and Training

Pupils test Chemistry at University

More than 50 budding chemists from Yorkshire and Lancashire schools put their science skills to the test at the University recently.

The event, held in the University's School of Life Sciences, was one of 47 Salters' Festivals of Chemistry being held across the UK and Ireland between March and June 2004.

More than 50 budding chemists from Yorkshire and Lancashire schools put their science skills to the test at the University recently. Pictured is Angeleena Kumar from Bradford Girls Grammar School.

Throughout the day teams of four pupils aged 11 to 13 from fourteen schools used their chemistry skills to solve a dastardly murder case and uncover the mysteries of the 'Z-Files'.

Demonstration Lecturer at the University of Leeds Dr Michael Hoyland also gave a practical demonstration at the event on the 'Delights of Chemistry'.

His visual display showed how mixing different chemicals can create a myriad of colours as well as how chemical reactions lead to 'mini-explosions' and flashes of light.

Recruitment Manager at the University's School of Life Sciences Linda Whitehead said: "This is the first time that the University has hosted a Salters' Festival of Chemistry and the students - and staff - were delighted with their activities - in particular Michael's display."

The success of the event was largely attributed to the technical team - headed by the School of Pharmacy's Head of Technical Services Jan Pedley.

Jan added: "The aim of the day was to make chemistry more exciting, more relevant and more fun. By the looks on the students' faces, I think we achieved that."

The day ended with a prize-giving when winning teams were awarded a share of £350 of cash prizes for their schools. All participants received prizes and certificates.

16 April 2004

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