A scientist from Cardiff-based Cansford Laboratories this week joined pupils at Whitchurch Primary School to help introduce them to the possibilities of a career in STEM as part of the 2B Enterprising educational programme for Primary Schools
Cansford Laboratories specialises in hair and blood testing, having pioneered hair testing in the UK. The company has joined forces with 2B Enterprising who have created a portfolio of storybooks and resources to teach enterprise in the classroom and pair schools up with businesses who are keen to give insight into their sector. Whitchurch Primary School is one of the largest in Wales and is keen to encourage children to experience a wide range of options to help inform their future subject and career choices.
Cansford Laboratories analyst, Hollie Haywood, worked with the children, answering their questions around science as a career and the diversity within science and technology roles. Hollie also held experiments so the pupils could experience the excitement of science first hand. Rhiannon John – Delivery Team Leader, from 2BEnterprising, then read a story and played a game with the children with the aim that they could reflect on their learning and embed the enterprise skills studies.
Hollie Haywood says, “It was wonderful working with the children, who were very engaged and enthusiastic. I enjoyed sharing my passion and my work whilst raising an awareness of a future within science and technology amongst the next generation. We hope this inspires them to consider broader options for their futures, and look into STEM as they move through school.”
Working with hundreds of primary schools in England and Wales,2B Enterprising aims to facilitate meaningful connections between businesses and schools for the benefit of young people’s current learning experiences and future prospects.
Jayne Brewer, CEO at 2BEnterprising added, “STEM is rightly a high priority area and we feel it is really important that children are introduced to the types of businesses operating in these sectors early in their educational journey.
It has been brilliant to have Cansford Laboratories on board to share knowledge and a passion for science as well as help them develop skills such as communication, teamwork, problem solving and leadership which are all key to the workplace. The children were very excited to talk to Hollie about science and we are grateful to Cansford Laboratories for its contribution to our enterprise initiative. We look forward to working together again in the future.”
