Sussex University has given a school science club a selection of kit from microscopes and lab coats to models of dinosaur skulls created with a 3D printer as well as graduated cylinders.
The after-school science club was set up to inspire children at West Blatchington Primary and Nursery School, in Hove.
The university said: “The science club was started with the support of one of our PhD candidates and parent-governor Nicole Bryce-Sharron.”
She said: “There is so much wonder in the world around us that unfortunately becomes lost for many as we grow and mature.
“To quote the American astronomer Carl Sagan: ‘Every kid starts out as a natural-born scientist and then we beat it out of them. A few trickle through the system with their wonder and enthusiasm for science intact.’
“As one of those kids who made it through with my wonder and enthusiasm for science intact, it’s my hope to inspire these kids to hold onto that wonder as they grow.”
Kristy Flowers, head of teaching at the university’s School of Life Sciences, said: “Getting young people involved in science through clubs and citizen science at an early age is vital to the future of STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths).
“They are our future scientists who will hopefully take their engagement, enthusiasm and questioning open minds into a future where they become problem solvers, advocates, critical thinkers and communicators.
“The School of Life Sciences at the University of Sussex is thrilled to support and collaborate with the budding STEM students of West Blatchington Primary and Nursery School.”
