The D-CYPHR team was very excited when both schools invited us to visit and interact with the pupils. It was fantastic to engage with a diverse community of parents, staff and young people and the enthusiasm and support for D-CYPHR and health research was wonderful to see.
Being given the opportunity to teach children about science and DNA in D-CYPHR schools is so rewarding. It enables young people to find out that every person is unique and different due to their DNA makeup. By encouraging students to get involved in STEM based learning and activities at an early age, allows them to develop new ways of thinking, opens up their curiosity and establish lifelong thinking skills.
Earlier this year, Dr Anna Moore and members of the D-CYPHR team visited Cravenwood Primary Academy to run workshops for Year 5 pupils on DNA and careers in science.
Cravenwood Primary Academy and Dukesgate Academy are both friendly, caring and supportive schools. D-CYPHR were able to engage with children by providing them with learning based assemblies, DNA lessons and a stall at the school fair. We were able to encourage children to learn more about DNA and genetics through hands on activities.
It was excellent to be able to broaden the students knowledge on different jobs within the STEM industry. Some pupils were not aware of the variety of careers that STEM has to offer, and so they spoke about their interests in becoming scientists themselves and really enjoyed thinking about future prospects.
At both visits, it was incredible to see so many families interested in the scientific and community benefits of D-CYPHR. There were so many open, inspiring discussions had with classmates, siblings and family members who have been impacted by a disease or condition. Families highlighted how they want to do their bit to help improve the lives of others, now and for the future by getting involved in health research.
Help advance health research!
D-CYPHR (The DNA, Children + Young People’s Health Resource) explores two key things for our health: our genetics and our environment.
We support health research for ages 0-15 in the UK, by pioneering new treatments and creating better care for children and the adults they will become.
Any child or young person can join, with or without a health condition.
We have a range of focus groups including: diabetes, mental health conditions, heart disease, rare disease, immune conditions and many more.
If you want to make a difference to children’s health research, take a look at our website to find out more.