Lynn Kidwell

I first became interested in science when I was at high school; the teachers delivered such interesting lessons and I really loved doing the practical work. This led me to applying for my first job as a school science technician when I was 16 years old.

I am motivated by the pupils that I prepare the science practical lessons for. They are so enthusiastic and really enjoy taking part in their lessons. I am also motivated by the pupils' excitement when they ask me if they are going to be doing a practical today; they are so delighted when I say yes. They come out of the classroom smiling and say, 'Thank you Miss'.

I think that the advice that I would give to a young person would be to go out and research the subject, and find out what careers that require chemistry are out there after qualification.

So future generations will be able to deal with our ever-changing world in the future. Good science education can provide a range of tools to creatively address current and future challenges. Students can be turned into scientists and this increases the chances of the next big discovery, for example cures for cancer, new vaccines, etc.

Chemistry education is important because it teaches children and gives them information, knowledge and an understanding of the materials that are around them. They can learn how science can change the world we live in, and they learn so many science skills during their time at school, such as how to predict results and evaluate.

I think that one challenge I encountered was Covid, having to make sure that equipment and laboratories were disinfected, and having to quarantine equipment before it could be used again.

The chemical sciences are making the world a better place because we can find solutions to viruses. They enable us to measure air pollution and water pollution, and this helps us to protect and improve the environment around us.

I think that teamwork is important in science education because collaborating with colleagues leads to better outcomes. I find that working as team on some occasions can reduce stress.

My favourite element is oxygen. Without it we cannot live. I think that oxygen is the most important element on earth. It is used in medicine and fuel combustion for example. Oxygen plays an important part in respiration and life would not exist without it.