Calling on the North West’s future scientists

Budding young scientists are invited to enter this year’s ‘Why I want to be a Scientist’ essay competition.

The North West Schools Science Competition showcases tomorrow’s top scientists and is open to pupils in Years 7 and 8.

To enter the competition imaginative students simply write an essay of up to 500 words outlining why they want to be scientists when they grow up.

Shortlisted entries will be invited to the Competition Final where they will present their ideas to a panel of experts from scientific, business and educational backgrounds.

The winning entry will receive an iPod Touch and £250 for their school to spend on science equipment. The winner’s class will also receive free entry to the exciting Flash Bang – What a Reaction! event at the Catalyst Science Discovery Centre in Widnes, Cheshire, in March 2011.

The competition was created by the North West Business Leadership Team (NWBLT) in conjunction with the Catalyst Science Discovery Centre, to encourage more young people in the region to consider science as a career.

Geoffrey Piper, chief executive of the NWBLT, said: “Last year’s Inaugural North West Schools Science Competition was a fantastic event and we would like to see even more young scientists enter this year.

“Young people are vital to the future prosperity of the North West, particularly in industries relating to science and innovation, which is why it is vital we capture and celebrate pupils’ passion for these subjects.”

The closing date for entries is Tuesday 2nd November 2010.

The ‘Competition Final’ will be held at the Catalyst Science Discovery Centre in Widnes, Cheshire, from 4pm-6pm on Wednesday 1st December 2010.

The event is being supported by Chemicals Northwest, Business in the Community, the Museum of Science and Industry and Active Profile. 

To enter simply email info@nwblt.co.uk up to 500 words on ‘Why I want to be a Scientist’. For more information go to:http://www.nwblt.co.uk/.