The access to HE Science Project Presentation Day was an opportunity for access students to celebrate their success. The Access to Higher Education Diploma at Truro College enables mature students who do not have traditional qualifications to gain the knowledge and skills needed to progress into higher education.

The planning and implementation of an independent practical project is an integral part of the Science Access to HE Diploma. Students have the freedom to choose their own area of research, hence there is a large diversity of projects each year. Local businesses in the scientific field are also involved, offering project opportunities that students can undertake either within the industrial or college laboratories. The college aims to promote employability and want students to leave with the practical skills sought after by industry.

Each student took part in a viva voce, or oral examination, with a panel made up of local employers in the science industry and employees at Truro College. This is invaluable preparation for higher education and, although a daunting prospect, many students really enjoyed the experience of discussing their research with genuinely interested experts. Each student was graded using criteria such as ‘The technical skills and dexterity required for the practical work’ and ‘How clearly they communicated and understood their results.’

This year featured an added element of competition and a gold, silver and bronze award was assigned for the three most impressive students.

The gold award went to Kayleigh Bunt who investigated bacterial growth on fresh meat samples stored at elevated temperatures. Kayleigh conducted her practical work in the laboratories of Tulip Food Group. The silver award went to Adam Webster who investigated the effect of temperature upon yeast and its production of ethanol. Adam’s workplace link was with a private brewing company. The bronze award went to Amy Hambly-Symons who compared the effectiveness of manual and electric tooth brushing for plaque removal and she was advised by her employers at Riverside Dental Practice in Truro.

The science industry has for some time raised concerns that students are leaving education lacking the necessary practical skills to work in industry. Truro College is working with the Gatsby Foundation, the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) and industry to bridge this gap. Access to Higher Education Science diploma students have the opportunity to gain Registered Science Technician (RSciTech) Status. The science pathway has been approved by the RSC and allows students to meet the competencies required for this new professional register.

11 of the students were awarded RSciTech status following their presentations. Congratulations to Phoebe Worden, Leon Whitehouse, Kate Alderson, Adam Webster, Emma Eustace, Lauren Barry, Kayleigh Bunt, Jamie Freeman, Amy Hambly-Symons, Samuel Powel and Steph White.

Nelly Harvey, RSciTech Assessor, said: “Personally, to be part of the process and to see the projects the students have carried out on behalf of local employers is a great experience. It’s a fantastic opportunity to see first-hand how they have added capacity to local businesses, whilst also gaining valuable practical technical experience. Their hard work is why we are proud to be hosting a special awards ceremony for the top 25 students from the fourteen colleges at the Royal Society of Chemistry’s London headquarters later in the year.”

Access students go on to study a variety of degrees including; dietetics, physiotherapy, paramedic science, dental therapy and hygiene, biochemical sciences, biosciences, chemistry, geography, mining engineering and many more.

Image: Access to Science

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