Secondary school teachers from across the country have spent a week back in University to learn about the science behind sustainable energies such as solar power and biofuels.
The twenty-four teachers have been attending a week-long summer school (17 to 22 July) with scientists and researchers on campus to build on their knowledge of sustainable energy and learn about the latest research taking place at Bath.
The course was run by the Department of Chemistry in conjunction with its Centre for Sustainable Chemical Technologies.
The programme of lectures and workshops included a visit to the University’s innovative low carbon straw house, “Balehaus”, and a trip to the GENeco Biogas Generation plant at Avonmouth which produces biogas from sewage treatment to generate electricity and even run a car.
Teachers David Edwards and Chandni Ladva (centre) discover how to make polymers from sustainable chemicals, with Dr Gan Shermer
The teachers also made solar cells using natural fruit dyes, and used potatoes and milk to make bio-plastic, in a series of practical sessions giving them skills and ideas for hands-on lessons to run back in the classroom with their pupils.
Event organiser Dr Gan Shermer, from the Department of Chemistry, said: “We’ve done a lot of outreach work with students but this is our first major project with teachers. It’s very exciting because the knowledge they take away with them can be used year on year to the benefit of lots of different young people.
“They’ve met academics working on the latest sustainable research in chemistry, engineering and architecture and they’re going away with lots of resources and ideas they can put into use in their classroom to help make science lessons relevant, fun and inspiring.”
Mr David Edwards from Bournemouth and Poole College said: “This programme will yield real future impact and benefit for my students. Top academics shared the latest science research that will underpin solutions in energy sustainability with both clarity and humour!”
The summer school is sponsored by The Goldsmiths Company. They sponsor a number of educational initiatives in primary and secondary education focused on science, literacy and numeracy. The Bath course is a new addition to its series of annual Science in Society Courses for teachers.