As part of the Faculty’s dynamic Widening Participation and Public Outreach initiatives, Professor Natalie Gardiner, Vice Dean for Social Responsibility, spearheads an exciting annual residential field trip for Year 10 pupils from a local secondary school, with invaluable support from FBMH staff and passionate student volunteers. 

Nestled right on the University’s doorstep, Trinity High School is a beacon of diversity, boasting a vibrant community of young minds who are nurtured by a team of dedicated and inspiring teachers, creating an environment where potential truly thrives. 

FBMH staff volunteers at Rhyd-y-creuau

This year’s trip was held at FSC (Field Studies Council) Rhyd-y-creuau, located in North Wales. Over the course of a jam-packed weekend, fifty pupils from Trinity High School made the most of the chance to take part in exciting experiments, engage with academics and staff from across FBMH, and enjoy the stunning scenery of the Welsh mountains.   

The weekend kicked off on Friday evening with a speed networking event. Students heard from University volunteers on topics including neuroscience research, careers in nursing, life as a doctor, and had the chance to ask questions about university life and admissions. 

Students explored the woods near the centre

Saturday saw students get involved with field and lab activities. Students explored the nearby woodland to conduct various field experiments, identifying different species of lichen and investigating how air pollution may affect their growth. Returning to the classroom, students conducted chromatography experiments, analysing the pigments present in different leaf species. 

After dinner, everyone gathered to hear Professor Dawn Edge, the University’s Academic Lead for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, speak about her experiences. Dawn took us on a journey from her early childhood in Jamaica to becoming the University’s first Black woman professor in 2019.  

The evening came to a close under a starry sky, where University staff, pupils and teachers all gathered around a bonfire (complete with marshmallows!) to reflect on the weekend so far. From enjoying the beautiful surroundings to connecting with new friends, many expressed gratitude for the opportunity to take part in a wonderful weekend. 

On Sunday, waterproof-clad staff and students braved the chill to conduct river sampling experiments and enjoy a stone-skimming completion. 

Trips like these are a powerful testament to the University’s commitment to Widening Participation. They play a pivotal role in breaking down barriers to higher education, opening students’ eyes to a broad spectrum of opportunities and career paths. By sparking curiosity and ambition, these experiences inspire the next wave of researchers, scientists, and healthcare professionals. 

Looking back on the weekend, Prof Natalie Gardiner said, “This annual event is always a success, with positive feedback from pupils, teachers and university volunteers. I returned enthused by the wonderful students and indebted to the teachers/colleagues who give up their precious weekends to make this event possible. These events matter. 

One student comment that really stood out to me this year was “I enjoyed going into the woods talking about different leaves and different trees as this was new and I had never been in the woods… it was a good experience for me… I also learned, and this is the most memorable thing for me, “Always ask questions, because asking questions is not a sign of weakness it is a sign of strength””. 

To find out more about events, activities and involvement opportunities in Social Responsibility, sign up to our monthly Public Engagement Digest or email srbmh@manchester.ac.uk.  

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