Science students in Year 9 at Court Fields School in Wellington have been studying chromatography and using their knowledge to search for evidence of criminal behaviour and sharpen their crime scene investigation skills.

Chromatography is the chemical process relating to the separation of liquids and is often used in forensic science.

Students were excited to share their experiences. One said: “It is great when we get to learn about things that are used in the real world. I find it much easier to learn when we know what we can do with our skills.”

Head of Science Miss Swannack said: “It is important in Science that students get to learn about real world applications for the information they are learning. Science is all about how the world works, and so we try to ensure we make the links between what happens in the laboratory and what happens outside of it.

“Our Year 9s are about to start thinking about the careers they might like to pursue once they leave education, and I think it is vital we give them an understanding of all the incredible careers available to them, as well as a good knowledge of Science, of course!”

Court Fields focuses on a different area of work within the school every month to find out what children are studying, showcase the work they are producing and celebrate students’ achievements. October’s focus was on the Science faculty.