Pathways to success

My A-level chemistry modules involved hands-on, close contact laboratory classes, with around 30 students on wooden benches, typically doing experiments in pairs or small groups. The network of scientists that I have acquired from working alongside others in universities has also been hugely beneficial. The connections I have formed have opened up job opportunities, and allowed me to enjoy doctoral training programme meetings – and research chatter in the pub.

Lately, as Covid-19 restrictions have prevented much in-person teaching in schools and universities, I have reflected on my fortune to have been part of this era. Thankfully, over the course of lockdown, I discovered that there are initiatives in place to give budding scientists some of the opportunities for experiment and discussion I had.

Widening participation schemes are crucial in ensuring everyone can get access to hands-on experiences. Projects like Pathways, which is one of 29 partnerships across England funded by the Office for Students as part of their Uni Connect Programme, aim to support more young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to reach their full potential through higher education. Normally, students are invited to universities to get a taste of lectures and laboratory sessions and complete a project over a six week period. Importantly, the courses do not just allow students to see what university is like – for their hard work and commitment they receive a Bronze Crest award to support their university applications.