Undergraduate Students as Role Models: Delivering Environmental Science Outreach to Increase the Accessibility of Science to Further Education Students

This study investigates the impact of undergraduate student-led outreach on the accessibility and perception of science careers among further education (16–18-year-old) students. School and College teachers identified three key barriers to science engagement: influence of family and friends, lack of relatable role models, and limited access to laboratory experiences. Here, a two-session environmental science intervention was designed and was delivered by university students to A-level and BTEC learners across four colleges and school sixth forms. The sessions combined hands-on soil analysis with presentations of scientific data and personal academic journeys. Analysis of pre- and post-intervention questionnaires revealed that 37% of students reported strengthened or broadened science career aspirations, while 30% perceived science careers as more accessible post-intervention. A-level students showed greater gains in accessibility than BTEC peers, highlighting the need for tailored outreach strategies. The study underscores the value of undergraduate students as accessible role models and the importance of practical, relatable science experiences.