As the importance of educating children in scientific subjects and encouraging practical learning rises up the agenda, BPCA member company, Bayer is working to help pupils learn about some of the basic scientific principles that underpin many pest control practices.

From 1 to 5 October, over 100 local primary school children and teachers visited the Bayer Environmental Science headquarters in Cambridge, for practical science lessons from using a microscope and testing honey, to the role of bees and their life cycles, delivered by the ‘Baylab’.

Steve Bishop, Bayer group Product Manager, explains that the Baylab provides an enhanced learning facility, that is normally based in Reading. “The roadshow has been a huge success, with students and teachers alike.

“The wider context for the pest control industry is an increasing pressure from the regulatory authorities. Not only have we lost key management products, but pest controllers are being challenged to minimise rodenticide and insecticide use.

“Therefore, the industry needs a steady stream of new professionals to continue and build on the research and development that’s required to support pest control for years to come,” he says.

“This is why we’re so passionate about awakening an interest in science among young people from all backgrounds at an early age, to boost their confidence, provide inspiration and aid in development."

Steve explains that he hopes the children and teachers went away with a positive attitude, not only towards science, but to the work that goes into maintaining the environments in which they work, rest and play.

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