A-level science students get a taster of immunology at Swansea University

Students on A-level science programmes took part in a hands-on immunology taster session at Swansea University as part of the organisations’ collaborative Medical Field Programme.

Students got to work in one of the university’s state of the art laboratories, where they learned how to assign blood types using antibodies.

The practical task required them to analyse three people’s blood types and their suitability to donate blood to a given patient.

The session was led by Dr April Rees, lecturer in biochemistry whose areas of expertise include immunology, immunometabolism and autoimmunity.

Coleg Sir Gâr, in partnership with Swansea University, runs the Medical Field Programme to highlight the various careers and opportunities and supporting roles available within the healthcare sector, that are not necessarily patient facing.

It highlights careers outside of but including the traditional doctor role, such as biochemistry, audiology, genetics, radiography and theatre.

Coleg Sir Gâr lecturer in chemistry, Dr Susan Ford, is leading the programme and said: “The Medical Field Programme aims to inspire students to explore the many diverse and professional careers available in healthcare.

“By attending these exclusive sessions at the university, we hope to offer students a university experience to help bridge the gap between college and university education and expose them to the opportunities available to them.”

The group also learned about the various degrees and pathways available into studying biomedical degrees at
the university.