Westminster’s School of Life Sciences inspires students from New City College with immersive campus visit

Students from NCC visited the University’s Cavendish Campus on 18 December for an inspiring introduction to laboratory science and studying life sciences at university. The students took part in a series of hands-on practical activities led by Dr Lorna Tinworth and Dr Karima Brimah, which introduced them to core techniques used in modern biological research. 

In the teaching laboratories, students analysed DNA fragments using gel electrophoresis, gaining insight into how genetic material can be separated and studied. They also examined swab samples under the microscope and learned how to identify different tissue structures through microscopic observation, developing key analytical and observational skills central to life sciences.

Alongside the practical sessions, students were introduced to ongoing research within the School, with a particular focus on sustainable biotechnology. Professor Godfrey Kyazze, Professor of Sustainable Bioprocess Engineering at the University, shared with the students how biological systems can be harnessed to address global challenges such as clean water and sanitation, affordable and clean energy, and responsible consumption and production.

The visit also offered guidance on how to apply to university through a talk from Fred Bonful, UK Senior Student Recruitment and Outreach Officer at the University of Westminster, who spoke to students about the UCAS application process and the different routes available for studying life sciences at undergraduate level. This was complemented by a tour of the School's specialist laboratories and facilities, allowing students to experience the university environment first-hand.

The School of Life Sciences regularly hosts outreach activities and school visits as part of its commitment to widening participation and public and community engagement, as well as inspiring the next generation of scientists. This highlights the University’s Being Westminster strategic commitment to being a place where barriers are broken, diversity is celebrated and everyone is welcome. 

Professor Kyazze, who hosted the visit, said: “Providing students with hands-on laboratory experience is crucial in helping them understand what life sciences are really about. We hope visits like this inspire them to see themselves as future scientists and to recognise how disciplines such as sustainable biotechnology can contribute to solving some of society’s most pressing challenges.”

Sourabhi Sethi, a teacher at NCC and former Applied Biotechnology MSc student at Westminster, said: “It’s fantastic for our students to experience university-level science in such an interactive way. As someone who studied Applied Biotechnology here myself, I know how supportive the School is, and it’s great to see our students engaging so enthusiastically with the facilities, colleagues and subject matter.”

This visit directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4: Quality Education and 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.

Find out more about studying Biological and Biomedical Sciences at the University of Westminster.