Chemistry students from Aureus School combined practical science learning with careers guidance during a visit to Vertex Pharmaceuticals at Milton Park.
The Year 10 group travelled to the research and business campus to take part in a laboratory-based titration session designed to support their GCSE Chemistry studies.
The workshop gave students the opportunity to complete one of the required practical elements of the course in a professional scientific environment, using equipment and methods similar to those found in industry laboratories.
Alongside the chemistry session, pupils also met Keith Willett, Professor of Trauma Surgery at University of Oxford, who spoke about career opportunities within the NHS and reflected on his 44-year medical career.
The visit formed part of Aureus School’s wider effort to link classroom learning with real-world experience and broaden students’ awareness of future career pathways in science, healthcare and research.
Nichola Poulton, Science Technician and Teaching Assistant at Aureus, explained that the practical laboratory session directly supported examination preparation.
“The titration session is a required practical for the students’ GCSE Chemistry, and so this workshop gave them loads of hands-on experience in a real-world laboratory environment,” she said.
Reflecting on the careers element of the visit, she added:
“Professor Sir Keith Willett’s career-based talk gave us a brief insight into his extensive career in the NHS, and an introduction into the variety of careers that the NHS has to offer.
“He was a great speaker, and we will definitely be trying to get him in again.
“Vertex provide a wealth of practical experiences, and we will be looking forward to attending more sessions next academic year.”
GLF Schools, the multi-academy trust of which Aureus School is a member, has emphasised practical enrichment opportunities as part of its educational approach, with industry visits helping students connect scientific theory with professional applications.
School staff said experiences such as the Vertex session not only strengthen subject knowledge but also help pupils understand how science qualifications can lead to careers in medicine, research and healthcare innovation.
