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The Great Science Share for Schools is a campaign to involve young people aged 5–14 in asking, investigating and sharing a scientific question they care about. It places young people at the heart of the communication of science to each other. GSSfS is relevant to all young people, in whatever educational setting, anywhere across the world. 

Good science education drives global citizenship and awareness – it provides the habits of mind to ask questions about the world around us.

Lynne Bianchi

The GSSfS concept is simple and transferable. Young people decide on a scientific question they care about, either by drawing on learning taking place in their own schools and environments, or using the stimulus resources provided by the campaign team. They are supported by their teachers to work scientifically to gather evidence and draw conclusions. Inherent in all GSSfS events, the key focus on 'sharing learning with new audiences' may include peers of same or different age groups in the same school or in cluster schools locally. Other audiences include parents/families, community industry partners and STEM professionals, as well as MPs and dignitaries.

Q&A with The Great Science Share for Schools

How would you describe the nature of the team in a single sentence?

A dynamic, responsive and innovative team working collaboratively with schools, charities and STEM industries, focused acutely on improving science learning for young people. 

Take the time – it often seems like there isn’t time to blow your own trumpet and humility can get in the way. It’s so important to invest in nominations such as the ·¬ÇÑÉçÇø Education prize as it affirms the great work the team are doing in a vivid way, from a prestigious organisation. This is great for people’s career progression, retention and recognition, and something that we should see as an integral part of the way we motivate and engage people within and towards our initiatives.

How did you first become interested in chemistry or science?

Lynne Bianchi: From my earliest memories, out in the garden and talking to my parents who were in science careers.

Kulvinder Johal: As a primary teacher, teaching and enjoying it myself so I can then teach the pupils.

Jo Montgomery: As a young child I made potions on the bathroom floor, mixing rose petals, shampoo, lotions and more, just to see what would happen!

Jane Banham: In secondary school, with a teacher called Mr Sellars who was just so inspirational – although I certainly wasn't a bright spark in the class, but he was just so encouraging. I then went to work for ICI Plant Protection/Agrochemicals.

Steph Hepworth: My mum is a chemistry teacher and I used to read the student's work and be fascinated by the practical investigations they were describing in their books.

Grace Marson: Having not enjoyed science at school, my love for science was ignited during my PGCE year. I was inspired by the tutors and when I began teaching science on my placement, I saw how much the pupils enjoyed the subject.

Who or what inspires you?

Kulvinder Johal: My mum inspires me. She is that voice telling me to try hard, do my best, keep going, be that role model, be strong.

Lynne Bianchi: Children's questions and ideas are what inspires me.

Steph Hepworth: I'm inspired by the natural world and the interconnectedness of nature. I love to observe nature and apply this idea of connection to my everyday life. Nothing exists in a vacuum.

Jane Banham: Seeing the enthusiasm of my pupils as they grasp new ideas. (Jane Banham) 

What motivates you?

Grace Marson: I am motivated to help teachers feel supported and more confident in the teaching of science as ultimately this has impact on their pupils. I believe that every pupil deserves high quality teaching.

Kulvinder Johal: Pupils, my class. The children have always been my motivation. To support, to nurture, to help, to guide them to be the best version of themselves. They didn’t have a lot, they don’t have a lot, so what we can do is the change, the big impact for them, and that has been super important to me.

Jane Banham: Encouraging the pupils in my class to enjoy the science they do and also the teachers I train and support.

Lynne Bianchi: Life... we have every day to do something good with... why not just grab it and go!

Steph Hepworth: Feeling like I am making a positive contribution and enabling others. Working with others and making connections.

What are the qualities that make your team special?

Grace Marson: We are all on the same mission! We have clear core values for GSSfS and the whole team feel strongly about these. We understand the difference we can make to a large number of teachers.

Kulvinder Johal: Shared goals and understanding. We work remotely so we hardly meet in person but we respect each other, support each other and know we are working as one team.

Jane Banham: Our vast range of education experiences and willingness to share, discuss and inspire each other.

Lynne Bianchi: Creativity, pragmatism and relentless ambition to make a difference.

Steph Hepworth: Communication, shared vision and ambition, ability to accept both success and failure.

What advice would you give to a young person considering a career in chemistry?

Grace Marson: Go for it! Speak to students studying chemistry and reach out to those who have made chemistry a career.

Kulvinder Johal: Go for it – look out for allies, support and role models along the way. You will find a way. The ·¬ÇÑÉçÇø is a great place to find that support.

Jane Banham: Look for the huge range of opportunities open to you.

Lynne Bianchi: If you feel like it's something that will get you out of bed in the morning – go for it! It's a great subject that facilitates so many other options.

Steph Hepworth: To think about what they enjoy and what makes them get up in the morning. They can then plan a career that combines their passion with a role that suits them in other ways too, for example working alone or in a team, travel, being outside, communicating, bringing disciplines together, working on a computer or being hands-on. (Steph Hepworth) 

Can you tell us about a scientific development on the horizon that you are excited about?

Kulvinder Johal: I'm excited about our PSTT Priority area work, as we will be collecting data soon to see what impact year one has had.

Jane Banham: A herbicide to kill black grass in cereal crops and, more personally, medicines to cure/prevent breast cancer.

Lynne Bianchi: The improvements in technology to support T1 diabetics to live with ease.

Steph Hepworth: AI – this can help us to cut down on some routine but time-consuming tasks, also for analysis and dealing with large amounts of information.

Why is chemistry important?

Kulvinder Johal: Chemistry is important because it speaks to our senses and ignites them.

Jane Banham: It is the core of everything.

Lynne Bianchi: It's the underpinning key to life.