Member Article

High-flying students see science in action at chemicals plant

A group of high school pupils were invited behind the scenes at a producer of one of the world’s most widely used chemicals.

The students, from Elfed High School in Buckley, were invited to Mold-based Synthite for an exclusive tour of the site, which produces formaldehyde, a chemical used in everyday items including furniture and cars.

They were selected for the visit as recipients of the annual Synthite science prize, which goes to secondary school pupils who have demonstrated exceptional effort in scientific subjects.

Dalmi Gedar won the prize whilst classmates Abby Cooper and Dylan Davies were named runners up.

The year 11 pupils, from Buckley, all earned three A* grades in their year 10 physics, biology, and chemistry GCSE exams.

The three are now studying for their year 11 GCSE exams and have applied to attend college and plan to progress to university.

Keith Polden, Synthite’s operations manager, guided the pupils through the process of turning raw materials into formaldehyde.

They were shown the manufacturer’s control room, main production areas, and where the chemical is stored for delivery. The pupils also had the chance to ask questions about careers in the industry along the way.

Dalmi said: “We normally study science in the classroom, but the tour showed the subject in action and especially how chemistry is used in practice.

“It was interesting to meet people who have been working in the science industry for a long time, and they gave us good advice on our future careers.

“I’m really pleased to have won this year’s science prize. It will boost my CV and applications for college and university and help me to stand out.”

Robert Head, Elfed High School’s head of science, said: “All three pupils have shown a fantastic flair for science, which is reflected in their top exam grades and performance in class.

“The tour enabled them to see the practical side of science and understand how Synthite follows a strict process to create its product.”

Keith Polden said: “The award has been running for a number of years as we’re passionate about promoting careers in science.

“This year we wanted to do something different by actually giving students a chance to find out what we do and learn about the science behind it.

“Dalmi, Abby and Dylan are all excelling in science and I wish them the best in their future careers.”

Synthite has operated from Alyn Works, Denbigh Road, Mold, since the 1950s. It employs 120 people.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Sam Harris .