Lancaster Chemistry project supports disadvantaged students through hands-on outreach and career insight
Photo credit: Lancaster University
Lancaster University’s Department of Chemistry, based in the United Kingdom, has completed a new outreach initiative designed to support Year 12 A-Level students from disadvantaged backgrounds in the North West of England.
The project, Elements of Success: Building Confidence in Chemistry, was funded through a £5,000 grant from the Royal Society of Chemistry’s Chemist’s Community Fund.
The program aimed to address barriers identified in the RSC’s Chemistry for All report, including the perception that chemistry is difficult, a lack of relatable role models, and limited awareness of chemistry careers. Forty students from Carmel College, Cardinal Newman College, Winstanley College, Blackburn College, and Rochdale Sixth Form took part in the pilot. Teachers were also invited to participate, receiving up-to-date career information and lab-based professional development.
Project activities and industry collaboration
Over a series of campus visits, students completed lab-based investigations, used virtual reality simulations, developed research posters, and attended employability workshops. The final event, held on July 2, gave students the opportunity to present their work to members of the Chemistry Department. Prizes were awarded for research posters.
Industry partner Victrex contributed to the program by co-delivering lab sessions and career workshops, highlighting practical applications of chemistry and the range of professional pathways available.
Georgia Spencer, Recruitment and Conversion Coordinator for Chemistry, says, “I created Elements of Success to show students from disadvantaged backgrounds that chemistry is for anyone with curiosity and ambition. By giving them hands-on lab experiences, real role models, and a glimpse into future careers, we hope to build their confidence and help them see that chemistry can be part of their story too.”
Future plans and institutional support
The initiative was also designed to strengthen links between schools and Lancaster’s Chemistry Department, while providing professional development for participating teachers. The program will now be established as a recurring annual opportunity.
Dr Nick Evans, Head of Department, says, “I am delighted by the enthusiasm of all who took part in Elements of Success, and I am confident the project will have a positive impact on participants’ futures in the years ahead. We are committed to making this an annual programme, and we look forward to hosting the next cohort of Year 12 students in mid-2026.”
