From 5th to 8th July, Mark Mitchinson, Ian Sipin and Timothy Smith, students from Tiffin School, were given a rare insight into the exciting and dynamic field of nanotechnology. During the four-day course organised by The Smallpeice Trust in partnership with the University of Leeds, thirty 15/16 year old students enjoyed a unique opportunity to learn first-hand about this revolutionary science.

Drawing from expertise across all the main science and engineering disciplines, nanotechnology uses the special properties of matter at molecular lengthscales to develop new products for high speed communications, energy storage, and treatment of chronic diseases. Based in the Centre for Molecular Nanoscience (CMNS), students enjoyed an exclusive view of the nanoworld through hands-on experiments – making nanoparticles and biosensors – visiting the nanotechnology clean rooms and using scanning probe microscopes to see atoms and molecules. They also attended masterclasses on subjects including carbon nanotubes and bionanotechnology.

The social aspect of the course included a quiz night, sports evening and a BBQ on the final night where students and supervisors socialised and shared their experiences of the week.

Spokesperson for The Smallpeice Trust, Claire Fisher commented, “Through this partnership we have been able to provide students with a chance to learn about the fascinating work carried out by internationally recognised engineers and scientists. With this support we are able to give students an insight into intriguing subjects, including the potential of nanotechnology which they have learnt about this week.”

Dr Robert W Kelsall, Director of CMNS commented: “We were delighted by the students’ enthusiasm for this course, and with their ability to engage in serious discussion about both scientific and policy issues. The UK has a pressing need for outstanding scientists and engineers, and the Smallpeice Trust courses are an excellent way of showing our most capable young people the attractions of a scientific career.” The Nanotechnology course is run by the independent educational charity, The Smallpeice Trust, as part of an ongoing programme of heavily subsidised residential courses to help young people aged 13 to 18 learn and develop skills in engineering, design, technology and manufacturing. Through running residential courses and STEM enrichment days, The Trust has reached out to 15,630 students across the UK in the past year.