Making an impact at Mid Sussex Science Week

Bio-Productions, based in Burgess Hill, met 140 pupils from five local primary schools recently when they converged to present science projects they had been working on all week. The pupils were partnered by local companies who assisted them with their projects during the week.

The goal of the event was to encourage science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) among 10-year-olds. Research shows that interest drops off after this age, particularly in girls. The aim was to showcase how interesting and engaging STEM can be.

Representatives from major employers in the town, including Bio-Productions, gave their time to work closely with teachers to set a suitable project that could eventually be presented on the final day. Bio-Productions showcased biological - how bugs work in cleaning products and how they use the natural waste bi-product of orange peel in cleaner degreasers. Its aim was to demonstrate how ingredients with less environmental impact can be used for professional cleaning - and encourage the students to think about less harmful ways to clean.

All 140 pupils had the opportunity to visit every exhibit and spent time explaining their own projects to the judges. After lunch, Mims Davies, MP for Mid-Sussex and Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Employment, visited and explained the importance of encouraging STEM subjects among young people. She also presented the winning schools with their prizes. The event was also attended by Rebecca Hayter, Gemma Cox and Aiden Briffett from Bio-Productions.

www.bio-productions.com