Funding to support chemistry in schools

The Biological and Medicinal Chemistry Sector (BMCS) Education Support Group of the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)-Industrial Technology Forum is inviting bids from schools and colleges for funding (typically £50-£500) to buy equipment to help enhance students' experience of chemistry and science and promote their understanding at all levels. 

Applications should outline the equipment sought and its cost, provide brief details on the areas of the chemistry/science curriculum the equipment will support, and, where appropriate, the learning outcomes and skills development that will be associated with its use. You should also indicate why the current school/college teaching budget will not meet the cost of such equipment. Requests for equipment that will be shared between several schools in an area are also welcomed.

Support for chemistry clubs

In addition to its equipment fund, the BMCS Education Support Group is also keen to increase its support for chemistry outreach activities in schools. Launched in 2007, the group's programme to fund 'out of school chemistry clubs' offers grants of up to £1000 to develop clubs for all age groups (eg KS2, KS3 etc) with the aim of promoting chemistry and science to school children.  

Schools are invited to bid for funding to either start these activities, or support existing clubs. Applications should outline the materials required (eg chemicals, books, equipment, software etc) and their associated costs, the target age group and the aims of the club.  

Applications for either BMCS funding stream, which must include your full contact details and be no longer than one side of A4, should be sent to Dr Jeremy Hinks, school of chemistry, University of Southampton, Highfield, Southampton SO17 1BJ.  

For further information on the activities of the BMCS Education Support Group visit the RSC website.