The Royal Society of Chemistry and Education Business Partnership

Fabulous Fowey!

Chemistry Careers

This week EBP visited Fowey Secondary School to deliver our Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) project which is funded by the RSC. This project involves a series of engaging workshops to Year 9 pupils, designed to boost their confidence, leadership, and teamwork skills while introducing them to the exciting world of careers in chemistry. By focusing on STEAM learning, these workshops provide students with hands-on activities that foster curiosity and critical thinking, making chemistry both accessible and inspiring.

This week, students explored the complex science behind one of their favourite treats—chocolate. In an interactive session, they examined chocolate’s chemistry through tastings and activities, gaining a new appreciation for what makes chocolate so unique. They learned that chocolate is made from cacao beans, which contain compounds that contribute to its flavour, texture, and even its effect on mood. When cacao beans are roasted, they undergo the Maillard reaction—a chemical interaction between amino acids and sugars that creates the rich flavours and aromas we associate with chocolate. Cocoa butter, which comprises about half of the cacao bean, has special fat crystals that melt just below body temperature, giving chocolate its smooth, melt-in-your-mouth feel. Students also explored a range of exciting careers within the chocolate industry, discovering how scientific knowledge is essential in every step of chocolate production. The workshop wrapped up with an exploration of how we can make chocolate production more sustainable, highlighting the essential role of science in shaping both food production and environmental responsibility.

" I never knew there was a science behind chocolate" - A pupil

To further emphasise the relevance of chemistry in real-world challenges, the students explored the impacts of climate change on cocoa production. In a timed challenge, the pupils worked together to "save" their chocolate beans from extreme flooding, reinforcing concepts of problem-solving, collaboration, and resilience. The workshop was not only educational but also a powerful reminder of how chemistry can help us address global issues, and I am incredibly thankful to the Royal Society of Chemistry for making these opportunities possible for the next generation of young scientists.

" I feel more confident with my team work skills" - A pupil