Prof Cox Inspires Pupils

CHILDREN from more than 30 schools in Tower Hamlets and Newham took part in a science summer school hosted by St Paul’s Way Trust School in Bow.

Science broadcaster Professor Brian Cox and Vince Cable, Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, opened the three days of seminars, discussions and hands-on experiments.

Scientists including theoretical physicist, author and broadcaster Prof Jim Al-Khalili, Dr Hannah Fry, Prof Sophie Scott and Prof Graham Hitman lead sessions aiming to inspire and encourage the next generation of scientists and engineers.

They discussed topics such as the science of laughter, quantum mechanics and life, and whether type 2 diabetes can be prevented.

The summer school, held this year from August 28-30, supports St Paul’s Way Trust School’s approach to engage and interest students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects.

It also aims to encourage an understanding of what real research means and involves, increase the uptake for STEM A Levels and degrees, and get more students to pursue a career in STEM subjects.

Prof Cox said: “The UK’s future economic success and growth depends on us building a world-class knowledge-intensive economy underpinned by an exceptional STEM workforce.”

He said science and engi- neering was for everybody with a drive to succeed.

“You don’t have to be a genius and you don’t have to be a man – science and engineering is for everyone,” he said.

St Paul’s Way is a specialist science school and head teacher Grahame Price said: “We are committed to inspiring young people to take a life-long interest in science, and encouraging the next generation of Britain’s scientists through innovative teaching methods and a practical and investigative approach to learning.”

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