Environmental Sciences Unlocked
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Most young people don't get to study environmental sciences before university. We want to change that.
Environmental Sciences Unlocked gives Year 10 students a week-long chance to explore the world of environmental sciences.
Through hands-on activities, simulations, and interactive workshops, students will delve into a range of environmental topics, guided by UEA academics.
Sign-ups are open now! Students should sign-up via this webpage.
The deadline to apply for Environmental Sciences Unlocked has been extended to 8.00 a.m. on Friday 27 February 2026. Please note sign-ups may close sooner if the event reaches full capacity. We encourage students to apply soon to avoid disappointment.
What will my students take part in?
Pre-event meetup: Tuesday 28 April 2026, 3.45-5.00pm
This introductory session prepares students for the main event. Participants will receive essential info about Environmental Sciences Unlocked, meet their peers and instructors, and discuss strategies to help them make the most of their experience. The aim is to build anticipation and ensure students feel ready for the main event.
Non-residential event: Monday 6 to Friday 10 July 2026
We've got a jam-packed week of activities planned for this non-residential course. Throughout the week, students will engage in practical lab-based projects, working collaboratively to solve real-world environmental challenges. They'll also develop a broader understanding of different career pathways in environmental sciences, all while learning directly from UEA academics and environmental science professionals.
Specific activities include:
This week-long activity will introduce students to the diverse disciplines that make up environmental sciences, such as:
Predicting weather patterns and presenting their own forecast
Studying the impact of Ice Age glaciers on Norwich, local habitats, ecosystems, and implications for town planning
Investigating river biodiversity, measuring water quality and flow, and identifying wildlife and plants using AI tools
Assessing and planning for risks like volcanic eruptions and floods
Exploring disaster tracking, risk assessment, and decision-making during events like floods and wildfires
The week concludes with a poster presentation where students will showcase their findings and the skills they've developed. UEA staff will also lead sessions to help students pursue their interest in environmental sciences at school and beyond, including potential career paths.
Most importantly, your students will leave feeling inspired - and ready for whatever comes next.
Does this count as work experience?
Environmental Sciences Unlocked is aligned with Gatsby Benchmark 6, making it an ideal work experience opportunity for students interested in these subjects.
Activities are designed to give students a meaningful experiences of working in a range of subject-specific careers by engaging in hands-on lab and field work, having extended conversations with academics and specialists, and producing a relevant, high-quality piece of work.
Throughout the week, students will record their learning in a workbook. On the final day, they will work in pairs to create posters showcasing their findings from one of the research days, based on the information they have recorded in their lab workbooks. They will present their work to their fellow participants and the UEA academics who delivered sessions throughout the week. On top of enhancing their subject knowledge, this activity allows your students to develop communication, teamwork, and presentation skills that will benefit them in school and beyond.
We will be happy to facilitate visits during the week to allow teachers to see their students in action! Just email scienceoutreach@uea.ac.uk to organise a visit after we have confirmed your student's place.
FAQs
Got more questions? Contact our team - we'll find the answers you're looking for.
Subject: Geography, Science, Environmental Sciences
Type: Knowledge, Skill
Audience: Young Person
Location: Campus
Year Group: Y10
Gatsby Benchmark: 4, 6, 7
Term: Spring, Summer
Sign Up: Yp