Chemistry between Rochdale and Salford

Rochdale Sixth Form College

Science students from Rochdale Sixth Form College visited the University of Salford to develop their skills in analytical chemistry.

As part of the trip, the AS and A2 level applied science students had access to university grade chromatography equipment, commonly used as a versatile way of separating chemical compounds.

Students used this equipment to analyse tablets containing caffeine, aspirin and paracetamol, followed by an experiment in which they analysed and identified an unknown tablet using the three known chemicals.

The visit allowed students to apply their classroom knowledge practically and also gave the group an invaluable insight into potential university degrees - sparking an interest amongst many.

A Level student Laura Mills said: “I really enjoyed our trip to Salford University. Having always been very interested laboratory equipment, this was the perfect opportunity to get hands-on experience. Hopefully I can go to a university like Salford to study a chemistry related degree.”

Laura Harrison Subject Leader for Chemistry, Physics and Applied Science at Rochdale Sixth Form College, explains: “Salford is a very welcoming university with excellent facilities. These educational visits provide students with opportunities which wouldn’t usually be available to them, aiding their studies and creating interest in undergraduate programmes”