Hill Laboratories Waikato Summer Science School

Investing in scientists of the future

In December 2009, forty Year 12 science students from the central North Island descended on the University of Waikato for the annual week-long Hill Laboratories Waikato Summer Science School. Budding young scientists are given the chance to work with the latest scientific techniques, meet like-minded students and experience university life first hand. This year the students began with a field trip to Waihi, examining plankton from the waters of Lake Gilmour (biological sciences), rocks from Karanagahake Gorge (earth sciences), analysing rocks and tailings for gold and silver from Martha Mine (chemistry) and also learning about various areas of electronic and biochemical engineering.

On the last day of the Summer Science School, the students presented their opinions on possible new mining sites in New Zealand, as well as rehabilitation plans for when mining has ended.

The Summer Science School, initiated by Rotary Club, has been running for 14 years and is the result of strong partnerships with Rotary and sponsors Hill Laboratories and The Gallagher Group. Main sponsor Hill Laboratories says it is committed to providing funds and resources to activities that support the future of science in New Zealand: “The Science Summer School is a key event for us to support, as it provides an opportunity for young people to come together and learn in the field of science and technology – an important step towards a career in this industry”, explains Hill Laboratories General Manager Steve Howse.