Science in the Workplace

Subject: Chemistry
Level: Secondary
Age Group: 11 - 14
Order Number: 15050

Unit 3 of the VGCSE Science at Work Unit requires students to learn about science in the workplace and to be able to identify local, national and international businesses that use science. This resource document shows how three companies, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), British Waterways, and Warbreck Garden Centre in Lancashire use science in their work. Details are given of the types of work available to scientists in these organisations, and the skills and qualifications required for them to gain employment with these companies. Detailed job descriptions demonstrate the nature of the work available.

The locations of the companies are identified and the reasons for these are explained. Wider qualities required by scientists (e.g. imagination and inquisitiveness) are highlighted. A list of websites guides students towards further information sources and a 'model' letter is provided for them to use as a basis for communications with scientific companies. A useful glossary summaries the meanings of various terms used in the text.

The document is designed to be used as a resource and to stimulate further investigation and study of this important aspect of vocational studies in science. It demonstrates the type of material which is available in the public domain and ways in which it can be used to meet the requirements of the new VGCSE syllabus in Science.