Ark Burlington Danes Academy students shadowed scientists during their visit to the world-leading research spaces at Imperial College London.
The recent visit was organised through the new H&F Upstream Pathway Bond, which has connected 82 local organisations and young people over the last year.
"I really enjoyed exploring the gas chromatography machine and learned a lot about it," said pupil Samir, 16.
While Grigori, 17, said: "The robotics section reinforced my passion for science."
Luckshme Loganathan, teacher at Ark Burlington Danes Academy, praised the new council initiative, saying: "By creating direct links between our classroom teaching and real-world applications, we're helping students discover their interests and develop skills that prepare them for future careers in science and technology."
The offer forms part of our pioneering Upstream London industrial strategy, which has helped attract £6billion of investment and created more than 13,200 new jobs since 2017.
Elements of opportunity
The sixteen A-level students toured Imperial's £200million Molecular Sciences Research Hub and I-X at the I-HUB in the White City Innovation District, just minutes from their school in Wood Lane.
Lab units at the research hub are where researchers analyse molecular structures and chemical compounds – technology that helps scientists develop new medicines and materials.
Meanwhile, I-X is Imperial's Interdisciplinary AI initiative. It brings together scientists working on artificial intelligence and machine learning, including robotics and practical applications in healthcare.
The day included a Q&A session with postdoctoral fellows from I-X Centre for AI in Science, supported by Schmidt Sciences. They shared insights into academic life and career pathways in science. Students then split into groups for lab demonstrations where they observed scientific instruments in action and learned about current research projects.
"I didn't realise the complexity of the equipment and instruments at play," said Alby, 17. And fellow pupil Yash added: "It's transformed my perspective on science."
H&F Upstream Pathway Bond
Our Upstream Pathway Bond brings together businesses and educators to offer young people clear paths into careers in fast-growing Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Medicine, and Media (STEM³) industries.
H&F Deputy Leader, Cllr Alex Sanderson, said:
We're helping young people in H&F discover the amazing career paths right here on their doorstep. Our Pathway Bond connects bright local minds with inspiring STEM³ companies to help nurture the next generation of inventors and innovators. It's part of our journey to deliver economic growth and share the prosperity of our booming borough with everyone."
Organisations who participate offer work experience, apprenticeships, mentoring, and skills development opportunities. In return, businesses are introduced to local talent and contribute to their future workforce.
Dr Sarah Al-Beidh, Research Development Manager at the Department of Chemistry, guided students through specialised laboratories.
"We are always excited to welcome local schools," she said. "We are dedicated to nurturing their interest in science, fostering hands-on learning and helping them discover opportunities within the world of chemistry and beyond!"
Imperial College London, ranked as the top university in the UK and Europe in 2024, is one of 82 Pathway Bond partners including global companies like L'Oréal, Novartis, and the BBC.
