AS Level

Your AS year is going to be filled with new experiences. You may have started a new school, chosen subjects such as Geology which you had never studied before or joined a huge range of exciting new extra-curricular activities. But the new experiences need not stop there! Most STEM Summer Camps, Masterclasses, Taster Days and other opportunities are aimed at AS students in order to persuade them to choose a STEM degree subject and pursue a related career. You need to start planning early - some of the application deadlines are in January! To help you organise this, I have attempted to compile a comprehensive list of opportunities with application guidelines, deadlines and previous participants' feedback. I also hope to include a calendar function soon.
For a full list of AS STEM opportunities, click on the '3 AS Level' tab above.

LASAR Science and Religion Residential for students entering yr 10-12

The LASAR (Learning about Science and Religion) Project is running a residential programme for teenagers. The week will run in August at the University of Reading and will be full of workshops and experiments for teenagers entering years 10-12  to ask and discuss big questions. Each day will have a theme (Space, Genetics, Being Human and Robots) as well as an overarching theme of looking at the brain vs mind and ideas about the soul.

The cost of the week is £200 (£100 Scholarships available) – which includes all accommodation, meals, equipment and resources including parts to build a robot of your own.

 

For more information about the week go to http://www.faradayschools.com/events/residential-summer-programme/ or for an application form send an email to LASAR@reading.ac.uk

Peterhouse College, Cambridge, Kelvin Science Prize

Every year, Peterhouse runs several essay competitions, including this one on science. Entrants are required to answer one from five essay questions.

There is a huge range of approaches to each topic, and no single one is right or wrong! Feel free to interpret each question as you wish, and thus explore areas of science YOU find particularly interesting - this passion will come across to the reader and make your essay stand out. You should also make sure you reference your essay correctly (make sure you use a wide range of sources, not just Wikipedia, and chose them selectively to ensure they are reliable and relevant), use a suitable structure (introduction, main points, conclusion), and include relevant examples and images where appropriate.

You cannot write your essay on a topic you have studied in detail at school, and there is a limit of 2 entrants per school per competition - however they do mention that they could be flexible on this so if you attend a large school and several students are interested in entering make sure you ask your teacher to contact them.

Not only would this be great to mention on your personal statement, you could win £500!
The deadline for entries to be received is the 14th March 2016.

For more information, visit their website and click on the link to the Kelvin Science Prize.

NPL Academy 2016

The National Physical Laboratory, Teddington (just south of London) is offering a week long NPL Academy in from the 11th - 15th July for GCSE and A level students interested in finding out more about physics careers. Selected students will have the opportunity to tour their lab, take part in team activities, build and launch water rockets, and work on a NPL project for the week.

Typically there are 30-35 students on the programme, and so there is a lot of competition for places. However, despite this the application form isn't too complicated - the only question requiring preparation is 'Please state why you would like to be considered for a place in the NPL Academy (500 words)'. Since this is the only opportunity for you to sell yourself, make sure you really point out your strengths, any previous physics projects and experiences you had enjoyed, your career aspirations, and what in particular about the academy you find interesting (such as the opportunity to work on a real project).

This is a fantastic opportunity to find out more about research at a leading laboratory, and would be great to mention on a college or university application for subjects such as Physics, Engineering or Maths.

For more details and to apply, visit their website. The deadline for applications is the 31st January 2016.

Cambridge: Year 12 Subject Masterclasses

Cambridge University is offering a range of subject masterclasses for year 12 students on various Saturdays between February and July.
A wide range of science subjects are available each year - including Genetics, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Physics and Medicine. They offer the fantastic opportunity to attend lectures, find out more about Cambridge admissions and talk to current undergraduate students. It would also be great to mention on your UCAS application.
For more information and to book your place, visit their website. Booking opens on the 6th February. Popular courses such as Medicine are expected to fill up very quickly.
I attended a Physiology masterclass at Cambridge in year 12, and really enjoyed it. We attended a couple of lectures, which explored topics such as nerve signal transmission beyond the A level syllabus, and it was great to have the opportunity to get some advice on applying to Cambridge. We also spent a few hours in one of the undergraduate laboratories investigating neurotransmission in the Ulnar nerve.
Kate Prescott (participant 2012)

Free Taster days at top London Universities

FREE Taster Courses at top London universities! Courses available include those for Engineering, Maths, Arts & Science, Astronomy, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Dentistry, Healthcare, ICT, Materials, Medicine, Physics, Science, Veterinary Medicine, and loads more! Places filled up very quickly last year - particularly for competitive courses such as Medicine - so book your place NOW!
These taster days are very informative and aim to inspire AS students (some are also available for A2 students taking gap years) to study each subject at university. Students tend to listen to a talk or two about the subject, followed by workshop sessions or other activities.
Taster days are being held on several weekends between January and July 2016, and additional courses may be running in Autumn (with a later application deadline).
For more information and to apply, visit their website.
Applications open on the 7th January, and the 'equal consideration' deadline for applications is the 13th January 2016 at 11am.

I attended a taster day on Medical Engineering at QMUL in 2012. It was very interesting and useful - we first had a lecture on what Medical Engineers do and the structure of the course at QMUL, followed by several workshops, including one on redesigning mobility aids and another more hands-on session on building an exoskeleton-based arm support. I really enjoyed the day, and learnt more about what the course is about and what kind of careers it would lead into. We also had the opportunity to talk to current students about the course and university, which was helpful. Although I decided not to apply for a degree in Medical Engineering, realising that I was more interested in Medical Physics, it was still worth mentioning on my UCAS form and I felt that I learnt a lot.
Kate Prescott, participant 2012

Oxford: UNIQ Summer Schools

Oxford is offering a huge range of FREE Summer Schools for selected disadvantaged UK state school students. With courses for pretty much every STEM subject (including Biological Sciences, Engineering, Earth Sciences, Materials Science, Computer Science, Medicine and Experimental Psychology) there is sure to be something you would enjoy.

The UNIQ Summer Schools take place for a week in July or August, depending on your chosen subject. During the week, participants will participate in hands-on practical activities, listen to lectures from top academics, have the chance to tour departments and colleges, find out more about the UCAS and Oxbridge admissions process, and enjoy social activities with other students.

Summer Schools are a fantastic opportunity to find out more about potential degree choices and careers as well as explore one of the world's leading universities. They are great to mention on your UCAS form to demonstrate your extracurricular interest in your subject and usually participants receive additional university-specific application advice to optimise their chances of receiving an offer.

According to the UNIQ website, their selection criteria are:

• The number of A* at GCSE compared with the average performance of the applicant’s GCSE school 
• Academic attainment and history of progression to Oxford at the applicant’s A-level school 
• Home postcode data
• Personal statement
• Polar 3 Data

The personal statement is your key opportunity to stand out from the other applicants and explain why you want to attend an UNIQ Summer School. The word limit is 2000 words - half the length of a UCAS personal statement. In terms of personal statement guidance, they list some very good and detailed advice here, which I would strongly recommend you follow in order to increase your chances of getting a place. In particular I would emphasise the importance of demonstrating your enthusiasm for your subject - keep your personal statement mainly academic and give evidence for all of your points - for example don't just say 'I love reading around my subject', say 'I particularly enjoyed reading a recent New Scientist article on Black Holes and Stephen Hawking's book 'A Brief History of Time since they gave me an insight into the many mysterious objects in our universe, which can only be understood through theoretical physics'. For some reading suggestions, check out the books section of this website.

Applications open on the 23rd December at 10am, and the deadline is the 3rd February 2015 at 5pm, but start working on your application now since you don't want to rush! Applications are very competitive and so make sure you have sufficient time to complete all sections of the application to the best of your ability.
For more information and to apply, visit their website.

London International Youth Science Forum 2016

The London International Youth Science Forum is a two week residential event for young scientists (aged 17-21) from across the world, taking place between the 27th July and the 10th August 2016. Participants will have opportunities to attend talks and demonstrations; visit industrial sites, research centres and universities; and take part in a varied social programme.
The cost of attending LIYSF is £1,695 per student - however participants are encouraged to find sponsorship to help with these costs. An additional CERN visit is available at an additional cost. The application form is very simple - you only need to find a referee to confirm your enthusiasm for science and taking part in the programme.
Students must:

• Have a good understanding of written and spoken English
• Be studying science and have achieved or preparing to take exams for university entrance

For more information and to apply, visit their website.

International Astronomical Youth Camp

The International Astronomical Youth Camp is a three week residential astronomy camp held in Germany from the 24th July to 13th August 2016 for those aged 16-24. Participants have the opportunity to carry out their own mini research project as part of a small team, take part in a range of social activities, and meet like-minded people from around the world.

You could learn about photographing the night sky, how to construct devices to aid astronomy, and all about atmospheric science, or discover the history of astronomy and the mysteries of the sun, or even put your programming skills to the test! There's something going on at IAYC for every young scientist or astronomer.

The application form is fairly simple, and should be sent by the 10th April. Applications sent after this date will still be considered if spaces are left, but there is a late application participation fee - so get your application off now!

The fee is 690 euros (not including transport costs) or 750 euros for late applications.

For more information and to apply, visit their website.

Applications for the European Space Camp 2016 NOW OPEN!

 Having been very privileged to be a participant in 2013, I hope that many of you will apply to take part in the European Space Camp 2016. Held on the Andoya Rocket Range in Norway for one week in July, participants will be able to experience all aspects of a real rocket campaign, including preparing the rocket, telemetry and launching their own sounding rocket. Additionally, they will have lectures from world experts, build model rockets, take part in a range of social activities, and see demonstrations on topics such as different types of rocket engines.

For me, it was an absolutely fantastic experience - I made many new friends from around the world (although it says 'European' Space Camp, anyone from any country can apply), learnt all about Space Science and Rocket Physics from experts in their fields, and had countless unique experiences such as being the Principal Investigator for a real rocket launch and swimming in the freezing cold Arctic Ocean.
The application process is a little more complex than for some of the other summer camps, reflecting how competitive it is to get in. You will need an up to date CV (make sure you highlight previous STEM summer camps, masterclasses, work experience, academic achievements and awards, competitions and any examples of where you have promoted STEM subjects or shown teamwork and leadership skills); reference from your school (I just asked my tutor to modify my UCAS reference, but if you are now a university student you may need a more up to date reference); and your GCSE/AS/A level certificates (whichever is most recent). Additionally, there are several questions on the online application form - make sure you give yourself plenty of time to plan your answers rather than applying the day before the deadline like me!
Katie Prescott (participant 2013)
 To apply, you need to be aged 17-20 on the 31st December 2016, be interested in Space and Rocket Physics and be fluent in English.
The deadline for applications is the 1st April 2016, but don't leave it to the last minute! Apply now online at their website.

Aspire Programme

The Aspire Programme is a fantastic opportunity for sixth form students attending state schools to receive comprehensive advice and support with their university applications right from the start of their A levels.

Students will typically benefit from:

• 35 weekly seminars/ workshops on topics such as leadership, research, interview technique and teamwork.
• Individual mentoring for up to 12 students at each school, including weekly guidance interviews and support from a Student Associate (a student at one of their partner universities who they can get to know, explore their subject choice with, and learn what university life is like from).
• Academic support via a network of Student Associates.
• Fundraising and Work Experience advice and support for schools - for example how to set up and maintain an alumnae programme or parents work experience contacts database, and contact details of companies of potential interest to students.
• University Scholarship opportunities for students taking part in the programme.
• Aspire Hardship Fund to assist students and schools with academic or subject related activities.

Schools can find out more and apply to participate in the Aspire Programme on their website. 

Franklin Society: GCSE / AS Science Essay Competition!

While I've been at Cambridge, I've been involved in several student societies - one of which is the Franklin Society. Last year we decided to launch a new essay competition for students interested in studying science at university, and this year the competition will be running again! It is open to GCSE and AS students (or international equivalents).

All you need to do is write an essay for one of the given essay titles, fill in a quick application form and covering letter, and email it to the Murray Edwards College Franklin Society by the 8th January! 

There are Amazon voucher prizes up for grabs, and of course participating in such a competition would be great to mention on your UCAS personal statement - even if you don't win the competition or decide not to apply to Cambridge for a related degree course.

For more information and to enter, visit the website!

Chemistry World Science Communication Competition 2016

Write an article (800 words) on the theme of "Public Attitudes to Chemistry" to win up to £500, have your work published in an edition of the Chemistry World magazine, and be involved in a 'special assignment' with Chemistry World and AkzoNobel.

The competition is open to students, post-grads and early career scientists anywhere in the world - excluding professional science writers.

There are two rounds to the competition - the first of which requires sending in your article, while the second involves an artistic/ creative presentation of your topic to an audience in March.

The deadline for submitting your article is the 8th January 2016.

For more information, visit their website.

Sutton Trust US Programme: Get a Taste of US University Life and Culture!

The Sutton Trust runs a programme for UK AS level students at state schools interested in applying to the US for university level study.

All residential events, accommodation and travel costs are included.

As part of the programme, participants will:

• Spend a week on a summer school in the US experiencing Higher Education and culture
• Attend four UK-based residentials to receive admissions advice
• Obtain admissions and financial aid guidance from a team of advisors
• Receive in-depth admissions test preparation
• Receive guidance for parents and teachers
• Have the chance to meet other UK students interested in studying in the US

To be eligible, applicants must:

• Be in year 12, or equivalent (e.g. S5 in Scotland)
• Attend a state school or college
• Not hold US citizenship
• Be from a low or middle-income family

They are looking for applicants meeting all (or most) of the following criteria:

• 8 or more As/A*s at GCSE (or equivalent)
• Commitment to the programme
• Interest in learning about US culture and Higher Education
• The first in their family to go to university
• Attend schools/ colleges with little or no history of sending students to the US universities

If you are not yet in year 12 but would like to recieve information on next year's programme, you can fill in their online survey.

To find out more and to apply, visit their website. The deadline is noon on the 27th January 2014.

They will also be holding a free online webinar about the programme on the 2nd December at 4pm - for more information click here.

Maths Inspiration Lecture shows!

Maths Inspiration is touring England and Wales, holding great shows near you to inspire students aged 15-17 to continue studying Maths. They generally compose of three lectures on fascinating topics such as 'Adventures in the Fourth Dimension', 'Maths of TV Game Shows' and 'Bouncing Bombs and Boomerangs', designed to give you an insight into exciting real world and theoretical applications of maths.

The events are being run throughout the year - for Autumn 2014 events, click here.

For every ten students booked, schools get a free teacher place - so encourage your school to run a school trip!

British Science Festival

The annual British Science Festival will take place this year in Swansea from the 6th - 9th September 2016. Open to science enthusiasts of all ages, there are a huge range of talks, workshops and general science fun on offer - and events are very cheap or even free to attend! Some events are very popular and require pre-booking - so check out the programme on their website now!

I attended the British Science Festival in 2013 in Newcastle as part of their student bursary programme. It was an absolutely fantastic week - I was inspired by a huge range of scientists, as well as making many new friends. For more information on what I got up to last year, see the Blog section of this website.

Nuffield Research Placements

Are you currently studying AS levels in STEM subjects, getting good results and keen to study a STEM subject at university? If so, you may be interested in doing a Nuffield Research Placement. These are 4-6 week projects carried out over your summer holidays with real researchers doing real research - an excellent way to show your passion for science on your UCAS form! Examples of past research carried out by past students on the programme include spotting new asteroids and investigating cancer cells.

After completing a research placement, students often go on to present their project at the Big Bang Fair, be awarded Crest awards or enter it for the National Science and Engineering Competition.

Not only is this a fantastic experience of doing hands-on science, but it's totally free! They will even refund travel expenses, and students from disadvantaged backgrounds could receive £80 a week!

This would be an excellent addition to your UCAS application as well as being a great opportunity to carry out genuine research and experience life as a scientist!

Applications are now open for summer 2015 placements. Deadlines vary depending on your region, and are generally in January to March.
For more information and to apply, visit their website.

REACT Engineering - Into Engineering Seminar

REACT Engineering is offering a week-long seminar from 29th June - 3rd July 2015 for selected AS students in the West Cumbria area. This is a fantastic opportunity for students to experience life as a professional engineer while undertaking a simulated decommissioning project. At the end of the week, students give a presentation on their project and the seminar is closed with a grand finale - for example one year they had a rocket launch!

This is a great way to find out more about an engineering career and show your enthusiasm and commitment to engineering on your UCAS application!

To apply, you need to fill out an application form. Although most of it is fairly simple, there are several questions which you will need to plan your answers for:

• Why do you want to be an engineer? 
• What do you think a 'professional engineer' does?
• Where did you find out about REACT Engineering? 
• Do you know anyone who has attended the seminar in the past?
• Any additional information

REACT Engineering also participates in the Year in Industry Scheme, offers summer placements, accepts work experience students on sandwich degree courses, and even sponsors students through their degrees!
To find out more information and to apply, visit their website.

RSC - AD Schools Analysts Competition

Every year, the Royal Society of Chemistry organises this popular competition for schools in the UK. Schools send in a team (or two!) of three students to their local heat, which is usually held in March or April at a local university, then the winning team in each region goes on to compete in the National Final in June. Participants carry out a series of experiments linked to industrial or social needs followed by calculations. If you are interested in taking part, mention the competition to your Chemistry teacher.
For more information, visit their website.
I took part in the competition in my AS year, and although I narrowly missed out on qualifying for the finals it was a great experience which I was able to mention on my UCAS form. We were able to use equipment I would never have had access to at sixth form, such as a spectrophotometer, and apply our AS level Chemistry knowledge to real life situations. An example of an experiment we were required to do is calculating the concentration of alcohol in beer and wine using gas chromatography. 
Katie Prescott (participant 2012)

AstroCamp!!!

AstroCamp is a star party in the Brecon Beacons which happens twice a year - the next camp is the 7th - 10th May 2015. Anyone interested in astronomy is welcome, you do not need to be an expert or have any expensive equipment. There is a great social scene too so you can chat to other enthusiastic people and enjoy the atmosphere.
For more information and to book tickets, visit their website.