Applied Science 2019-2020

How can we, as scientists, improve global healthcare?

In this project, BTEC students on the L3 Certificate Applied Science course experienced and developed their knowledge of the science industry by researching the pharmaceutical industry and simulating the production of a new drug.  They also learnt first-hand from an industry professional. From visiting MSD, the focus of this unit was the synthesis of medication. Students considered the synthesis of a specific medication from raw materials to a commercial product. They learnt about communication practices, how laboratories are designed, how information is stored in laboratory information management (LIMS) and how to work safely in a scientific workplace.

The launch event consisted of a visit to Net Park, a local pharmaceutical business, and a visit from a Plant Manager from MSD, a pharmaceutical industry.  The project progressed to creating and developing a new drug for the market, which coincidentally tied in with the early stages of the global Covid-19 pandemic, meaning even more authentic connections to the world we live in for the students.

Cultural and social capital:

This project developed authentic scientific skills linked to the science industry, and in particular, the local pharmaceutical industry.  Students learnt about the employment possibilities in their local area, and more generally, about the range of job opportunities within the field by simulating the creation and production of a new drug for the market.  This actually tied in with the early stages of the global Covid-19 pandemic, so students were able to make authentic, real-world links and access authentic media reports and information. 

Project timeline

Launch event/ Final product and showcase 

Launch event:  Visit from Plant Manager at MSD, a pharmaceutical plant in the local area.  This was followed up with a visit to Net Park. 

Showcase:  Individual product – Students produced a portfolio which was presented to a variety of invited guests.  The team product was displayed on the classroom noticeboard.  

For the full case study and more information, see the PBL planning guide.