An Acton pupil has gained a coveted place on a national scientific work experience programme.

Negin Oghabi who attends the Ellen Wilkinson School for Girls in Acton, successfully applied for a place on the ‘Molecule to Market’ scheme, which is organised by healthcare company GSK.

The programme invites young people from across the UK to gain an insight into how medicines and vaccines are developed and manufactured.

Oghabi said of the three day work experience programme: “The prospect of working in such a high profile industry developing medicines that could save people’s lives all over the world is amazing.

“The things I have learnt over the past three days, I have never and probably would never have learnt at school.

"I was initially thinking about pursuing a career in scientific academia, either as a research scientist or lecturer, however this work experience has taught me that there are so many careers within the scientific sector, some of which I had never even considered!”

Laura Budd, who is completing an Industrial Placement with GSK as part of her degree studying IT and Business at the University of East Anglia, helped to organise the programme.

She said: “Work experience at GSK encourages young people to consider studying Science, Technology, Economics, Mathematics (STEM) subjects.

“As someone from an IT background, I have been introduced to the wonderful world of Science through organising this event, as well as developing my own professional skills.”

During the three-day programme between Wednesday, November 26 and Friday, October 28 students took part in a series of workshops around drug discovery, development and clinical trials.

They were also encouraged to have a go at basic manufacturing tasks, as well as developing skills in marketing and doing job interviews.

Budd continued: “The programme comes at an important time in the school calendar, when the students are making decisions on what subjects and career paths they want to pursue.

“I think having this experience outside of the school environment helps students feel more secure in their upcoming choices.”

At the end of the three days, each student was presented with a Bronze Level Industrial Cadets award. Industrial Cadets, set up by HRH The Prince of Wales and administered by education charity Engineering Development Trust (EDT), encourages businesses to offer opportunities to people so that they can get an insight into how scientific, engineering or technology companies operate.

The certificate also contributed towards students’ Bronze Duke of Edinburgh award attainment.

GSK’s involvement with Industrial Cadets is part of the company’s commitment to supporting the next generation of scientists, technologists, engineers and mathematicians.

The programme is now the largest multi-site accredited work experience programme in the Industrial Cadets calendar; something they hope will encourage more young students to see a future in STEM subjects and the opportunities they offer.