Led by Professor Louise Thomas, Science4U is a UK-based voluntary group that hosts the Annual Schools Science Conference. Science 4U has been partnering with The University of Westminster WISER team for over a decade on delivering this award-winning conference focused on specific, real-world themes — recent examples "Science for Sports" and "Science for the Next Generation".
The program brings together volunteer scientists and healthcare professionals to inspire Years 9–11 students through interactive exhibits, workshops, and career showcases. Each year, 25–30 researchers work alongside colleagues to co-create and deliver the festival, developing leadership, teamwork, project management and public engagement skills.
More than 350 pupils and their teachers from secondary schools across London attend annually. The schools are joined by 80-100 scientists from organisations including the NHS, Great Ormond Street Hospital, the Institute of Biomedical Science, as well as a range of universities and pharmaceutical companies.
In 2026, over half of the pupils in attendance reported being more likely to consider both university and a career in science following the event. One of the pupils who participated: "Today’s event helped me recognise the different opportunities science carries and that developments in healthcare can carry huge importance globally."
