Royal Society London Trip: Hands-On, Minds-On: The Future of Practical Science in Schools Conference

The day started with a panel discussion on breaking down barriers to practical science in which Dr. Dyer and Year 11 student Blossom were part of a panel of six answering questions from the director of the Royal Institute, Katherine Mathieson, and the audience.

Dr. Mitchell accompanied three Year 10 students, Felizian, Hamdhan and Mohieddin, as they presented an academic poster and practical activity summarising their work on adaptive morphology of insect mouthparts that they carried out using the SEM. All the students were superb ambassadors for our schools and presented with great confidence and eloquence. There was so much interest in our approach to delivering practical STEM projects and people interested in collaborating.

The Royal Society was founded in 1660 and it's halls have been walked by names such as Charles Darwin, Isaac Newton and Mary Somerville, Mary Anning and Ernest Rutherford. What an inspiring place for our aspiring scientists to present their amazing project work.

Student Work Experience at Hale Road Dental Practice

Before half-term, Liverpool Life Sciences UTC student Jake completed 3 days of work experience at a local dental practice. 

During the placement, Jake observed a wide range of dental procedures and daily operations within the practice. He was introduced to the roles and responsibilities of dental professionals, including dentists, dental nurses and reception staff. Throughout the placement, he observed patient consultations, routine check-ups, restorative procedures and preventative care appointments.

When asked about his duties, Jake shared: "I shadowed the dentist I was with, seeing how they act on a day-to-day basis, performing activities from logging patient records, to actively extracting a tooth, allowing me to learn a lot more about dentistry."

Regarding what he enjoyed most, he noted: "I enjoyed all of it! I loved talking to the dentists, hearing their perspectives on things, watching all the extractions and fillings and finally learning stuff I had no clue about before this opportunity."

When asked what he learnt during his placement, Jake explained: "I learnt that dentists are not paid a standard hourly rate; they are paid in UDAs (Units of Dental Activity). Different tasks are assigned a certain number of UDAs: a standard check-up is 1, a filling is 3, and a root canal is around 12 UDAs. These UDAs equate to a certain amount of money, typically around £12 per UDA."

Regarding how the placement has prepared him for future work, Jake stated: "It has given me first-hand work experience of being in a dental practice, which is very valuable to a CV that I want employers to be impressed by. Additionally, it will allow me to excel at any interviews I have to take as it has deepened my passion for dentistry and has also taught me a lot about dentistry."

Dr Ibrahim, Associate Dentist, commented: "Jake showed keen interest in learning about dental practice operations, asked thoughtful questions and demonstrated a positive and professional attitude throughout his placement. He gained insight into infection control procedures, the use of dental instruments and the importance of maintaining patient confidentiality and professionalism in a clinical environment". 

Well done to Jake for his commitment, positive attitude, and the initiative he showed during his time at the practice.

Scholars Experience the Workplace at Hope University

On Wednesday, a group of Ignite and Year 10 students from the Scholars Programme took part in an exciting Experience of the Workplace event at Liverpool Hope University organised by Ms. Grattage and Mr. Storey. The day gave students a fantastic opportunity to explore green careers and learn more about the world of work in fields linked to geography, science, and engineering.

During the event, students attended a series of workshops led by a range of employers. Companies such as Ramboll, the construction firm behind the Runcorn Bridge project, shared insights into civil engineering and sustainable design.

Bachem, a pharmaceutical company that produces peptides, introduced students to careers in medical science and research. Vinci Construction explained the many routes into the building industry, including the value of apprenticeships, while representatives from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero discussed the growing importance of green energy and environmental innovation.

Throughout the day, students had the chance to ask questions, take part in discussions, and gain valuable knowledge about career pathways, university degrees, and apprenticeships. It was an inspiring experience that helped our young scholars imagine the many possibilities for their futures after school.

Primary School 'Cookie Jar Crime Scene' Activity

This week, New Park Primary School visited for a ‘Cookie Jar crime scene’ enrichment session. Students rotated through four stations where they learnt how to take and dust both fingerprints and shoe prints as evidence and got to take a copy of each back with them. They made keyrings with their fingerprints on and got to take their shoe print from the inkless system.

They ended the session by engaging with the scenario we created by looking at the evidence that was collected to determine which of the suspects stole the cookies. It was an extremely enjoyable session and the students were really enthusiastic and engaged.

Their visit ended with a commemorative ceremony led by a Rabbi, where the group lit memorial candles for victims of the Holocaust. Students, as part of their ‘Next Steps’, will share what they have learnt with us and our community.

Amelia, in Year 11, has been developing a series of digital illustrations as part of her Graphics coursework. It has been brilliant to see her confidence grow over the last couple of months.

Meet the Mentors Event

This week, Year 12 Applied Science students took part in a ‘Meet the mentors’ event, where students had the opportunity to network with industry experts from local pharmaceutical companies, including Pharmaron, Astrazeneca and Bristol Myers Squibb.

The event was enjoyed by all and resulted in our students being matched to a mentor of their choice. We are now entering our fourth year of our BioNow mentoring scheme and it has been a major factor in raising our students' career aspirations. 

We would like to thank Geoff Davison, CEO of BioNow, and the mentors for their ongoing support of the scheme. 

Find out more about the Creative Pathway at The Studio School here.

Do You Know Any Year 11 Students at Other Schools Who Are interested in Technology, Art, or Life Sciences?

On Saturday, 15th November, at 9 am, we are hosting a Pathway Taster Event for external Year 11 students, designed to help them explore the specialised pathways available at Liverpool Life Sciences UTC and The Studio School. This event is a chance for them to immerse themselves in the subjects that could shape their future.

To register, click here.

During the session, students will have the opportunity to explore one of three distinct pathways. 

Discover the Technology Pathway by stepping into the world of emerging technologies and discover the tools shaping tomorrow. This interactive session offers the chance to explore three exciting areas:

• AI Prompt Engineering
• Programming with Purpose (including drone programming)
• AR/VR – Digital Immersion

 We will set up three interactive areas across two rooms, giving participants the opportunity to explore each theme hands-on. The session introduces key concepts in computer science, provides practical applications aligned with AAQ, and opens discussion around T-Levels and the ethical implications of emerging technologies. Differentiation will be embedded throughout – Find out more about the pathway here.

Experience the Art Pathway through a specialist Life Drawing session, designed to develop your observational skills and creative expression. You will explore proportion, form, and technique while working directly from a life model. This practical workshop provides a unique opportunity to refine your drawing skills, experiment with various approaches, and develop confidence in capturing the human form – Find out more about the pathway here.

Discover the Life Sciences Pathway with a hands-on microscopy workshop. Come and observe a range of samples, including live daphnia, using both dissecting and light microscopes. This engaging session will give you the opportunity to develop practical skills, sharpen your observational techniques, and gain insight into the microscopic world that underpins biological science – Find out more about the pathway here.

Career Opportunities

1. EasyJet Aircraft Engineering Apprenticeships

Applications for their next cohort of Aircraft Engineering Apprentices are open. Applications close on Sunday 9th November. There are 20 vacancies, with over 1700 applications received during the last intake. More information can be found here and the application form found here.

2. Green Careers Remote Work Experience Opportunities

Futures for All are advertising remote work experience placements, based around the environment and sustainability. Click here for more information on the available opportunities. There are different closing date is 10th November.

Browse all live placements here.

3. Get trained and get paid. Launch your career with level 2 & 3 apprenticeships at Airbus Stevenage

Are you ready to build a career that is literally out of this world? Applications for Level 2 and Level 3 Apprenticeship programmes at Airbus Defence and Space are open, providing school and college leavers the perfect way to help their careers take off and the unique chance to contribute to missions that define our future.

Apprentices at Airbus are supported through an education programme, and are paid at the same time. With starting salaries from £16,800 to £20,681, it’s the perfect way to get qualified and get paid. Successful school-leaver applicants will work towards level 2 or 3 qualifications, such as NVQs, City & Guild, HNCs and HNDs.
 

Why Choose an Airbus Apprenticeship?

At Airbus, they don't just build aircraft—they build satellites, secure communication systems, and critical defence infrastructure. As an apprentice in Stevenage, you’ll be hands-on with real projects from day one, mentored by world-class engineers and technicians.

• Level 2 Apprenticeships (Focus: Foundational Skills): This is your entry point, ideal for those leaving school or looking for practical, entry-level experience. You’ll gain core knowledge and essential technical skills, building a strong foundation in manufacturing, assembly, and maintenance that is transferable across the industry.

Level 3 Apprenticeships (Focus: Technical Expertise): Designed for motivated school leavers (typically post-GCSE/equivalent) or Level 2 graduates. You'll dive deep into specific technical disciplines, leading towards roles such as Engineering Technician, Manufacturing Specialist, or a specific systems role within our Defence or Space divisions.

To apply, click here.

4. Level 3 Craft Apprenticeship programmes at Airbus Broughton.

This is your chance to help build the future of aerospace, right here in Flintshire.

This is your place to pioneer the future. It is not just an apprenticeship; it is a mission. You will be a vital part of our team from day one, getting hands-on experience and contributing to the creation of the world's most advanced aircraft.

Why Choose an Airbus Apprenticeship?

• Get qualified and get paid: You will earn a competitive starting salary of    £16,800 while we sponsor you to gain your Level 3 qualifications (such as NVQs and City & Guilds).
• A space to belong: You will be mentored by world-class engineers and technicians in a team that respects and supports you.
• Pioneer sustainable aerospace: The work you do matters. You will be contributing to projects that connect and protect people and pioneer a more sustainable, safe, and united world.

New for 2026: Surface Finisher Apprenticeship

This new programme is designed for motivated school and college leavers (typically post-GCSE/equivalent). You will dive deep into a crucial technical discipline, learning how to apply the highest quality finishes to our aerospace components.

To find out more, click here.

5. Degree Apprenticeships at the BBC

View all upcoming placements here.

6. National: Publicis Groupe, Media & Marketing Virtual Webinar

This event is for Year 12 and 13 students interested in a career in media, creative production, health communications and advertising and looking to understand more about apprenticeship opportunities, live roles and the media/marketing industry.

When? Thursday 11th December 12:00PM - 1:30PM

To register, click here.

7. Personalised apprenticeship opportunities for Year 11 students 

Students can now join Unifrog’s Talent pool to receive personalised apprenticeship opportunities directly from employers! Employers, including the National Grid, Childbase, and the British Army are currently using Talent pool to share opportunities with Year 11 students seeking apprenticeships starting in summer 2026, so now’s the perfect time to dive in!

Now is also a great time for Year 12 and 13 students to join Talent pool to receive personalised opportunities from universities and employers.

Find out more here.

8. Independent Visitors

An Independent Visitor is a volunteer who spends quality time with a child or young person who is looked after by the Local Authority for a few hours every month. This could include going to the cinema, shopping, going to the beach or just having a coffee and a chat. There is a mileage allowance and expenses are reimbursed.

No formal qualifications are required – just a genuine commitment to children and young people. Independent Visitors do not take on a parenting role; they are there to provide a sense of 'normal’ life to a young person who is in care. Independent Visitors are not like parents, social workers, or carers – that is why they are called 'independent'. They are ordinary people, like you, who volunteer their time because they want to make a difference for children and young people. Free training for this role is available soon.

For more  information email [email protected]

9. ALDI Virtual Work Experience Programme

Designed to inspire 10,000 students and beyond to discover opportunities in retail and business.

Hosted on Springpod, a trusted online careers platform connecting students with top employers, this virtual experience lets students:

•  Step into the world of retail and business operations
• Explore logistics, marketing and customer experience
• Develop teamwork, communication and leadership skills
• Earn a certificate of completion to boost their CV or UCAS application

*All completely free and flexible to complete at your students’ own pace.

To find out more, click here.

10. Dunelm Virtual Work Experience

This exciting opportunity is designed for students aged 13 and up, offering 7 hours of immersive content across a range of modules that reflect the many different areas of the business - from retail and customer service to product development, marketing, and more.

Find out more here.

11. Exciting Opportunities at Wrexham University: Friday 5th December

Are you interested in developing your knowledge of Football coaching and how it can support and impact those within your community? The FdA Football and Community Development course may be for you.

Partnered with Wrexham AFC Foundation, this course combines your passion for football with positively impacting communities. This foundation degree provides a unique blend of practical coaching skills, community engagement strategies, and industry knowledge, preparing you for exciting careers in football coaching, sports development, and community work.

They will be running from 4:00pm – 7:00pm.

• 4:00pm-4:30pm – Arrival and welcome
• 4:30pm-5:30pm – Stadium tour of Wrexham AFC
• 5:30pm- 6:00pm – Information talks on the course
• 6:00pm-7:00pm – Activity session outside with the Wrexham AFC Foundation Staff.
• 7:00pm – opportunity for questions and event closes

This event is open to anyone over the age of 17 who wishes to study the course or know a little bit more about the course and what it entails.

The event will be held at Wrexham university campus and is free to attend.

To register your place, click here.

12. Discover! Creative Careers is an industry-led programme

Unmissable LIVE virtual talks with big names such as BAFTA and Sky Studios and there are a variety of themes such as careers in journalism, theatre, fashion and textiles, sound engineering, craft, architecture, special FX and games design. 

To register, click here.

Parents and Carers Bitesized Mental Health Training sessions

• 12/11/2025 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm - Understanding Mental Health Support for Children and Young People in Liverpool
• 13/11/2025 9:00 am - 4:00 pm - Education in Mind 2025. Liverpool Guild of Students, Liverpool
• 17/11/2025 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm - Growing Stronger Skilled & Leadership Reflective Space
• 17/11/2025 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm - Managing Challenging Conversations
• 18/11/2025 9:30 am - 4:30 pm - REACT: Sleep. Merseyside Youth Association Ltd, Liverpool
• 18/11/2025 10:00 am - 11:15 am - Nutrition and Wellbeing
• 18/11/2025 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm - Adolescent Brain Development
• 18/11/2025 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm - Understanding and Managing Anxiety
• 18/11/2025 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm - An Introduction to Eating Disorders
• 18/11/2025 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm - Behaviour as Communication
• 19/11/2025 10:00 am - 11:30 am - Understanding and supporting crisis and risk in schools
• 20/11/2025 10:00 am - 11:00 am - Body Image
• 20/11/2025 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm - Kinship Kids and Mental Health
• 20/11/2025 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm - Growing Stronger ACEs SKILLED Training. Merseyside Youth Association Ltd, Liverpool
• 20/11/2025 3:00 pm - 4:15 pm - Cultivating Self-Compassion

To register click here.

Liverpool Marks Remembrance Sunday and 80th VE/VJ Anniversaries

Liverpool City Council’s annual Remembrance Service will take place on Sunday 9th November at St George’s Hall.

Veterans and civic representatives will take part in wreath-laying ceremonies, and a two-minute silence will be observed to honour those who gave their lives. Special recognitions will also be made, highlighting historic contributions and acts of service.

A commemorative artwork will be on display, and city landmarks, including St George’s Hall and the Town Hall, will be illuminated to mark Remembrance weekend. The service is open to all, with road closures in the surrounding area on the day to ensure public safety.

Advanced Manufacturing: Making Production Quicker, Smarter, and Greener

It combines the human qualities of creativity and logic with progressive technology, such as robotics, artificial intelligence, and augmented reality, to transform how we make and improve products. 

From producing zero-emission vehicles and lifesaving vaccines to crafting components for satellites and renewable energy systems, advanced manufacturing revolutionises the world we live in. 

To apply, click here.

To apply, click here.

To find out more, click here.

To find out more, click here.