A unique STEM opportunity for students in Halton

Applications are now open for students in Halton and the surrounding area to apply for work experience placements at STFC’s Daresbury Laboratory.

Part of the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) and located at the vibrant Sci-Tech Daresbury campus, the programme gives students a unique chance to gain hands-on experience in a world-class science and technology environment.

From AI to electrical engineering and business innovation, to name a few examples, it offers students the opportunity to explore the exciting possibilities of a future in STEM.

Placements will take place between June and August, so students are encouraged to apply early.

Building on last year’s success

Last year, 373 students took part in the 2025 Work Experience Programme, many from across the local area. Of these:

  • 80% felt inspired by the experience
  • 90% are considering studying STEM subjects after school
  • 100% said they value STEM careers at all levels

The strong local participation highlights Daresbury Laboratory’s long-standing commitment to supporting young people close to home and helping them explore future career pathways.

 

Real impact for local schools

Students from local schools including Ashley High School, Cronton Sixth Form College, The Heath School and Sandymoor Ormiston Academy were among those taking part last year.

Their feedback shows just how impactful the experience was:

  • 100% said the placement gave them an insight into what it’s like to work at STFC
  • 70% reported increased interest in a career in science and technology
  • 90% felt STEM careers are “for people like them”
  • 80% said they will use what they learned in the future
  • 90% are interested in future opportunities at STFC, including apprenticeships

When asked what they enjoyed most, students consistently highlighted the hands-on nature of the programme and the chance to work in real laboratory environments.

 

Hands-on experience

The work experience programme allows students to explore a wide range of disciplines, from nuclear physics and electrical engineering to AI, high-performance computing and particle accelerator technology, alongside STEM support roles such as business innovation, communications, project delivery and logistics.

By working alongside scientists, engineers, technicians and professional staff, students gain invaluable insight into how science and technology operate beyond the classroom.

Located within the thriving Sci-Tech Daresbury campus, the programme also exposes students to a wider network of innovative local businesses, showcasing the breadth of science and technology careers available within Sci-Tech Daresbury as well as across the Liverpool City Region and North West.

 

Opening doors for local students

A significant number of placements are allocated each year to local students, particularly those in Halton, as part of the Sci-Tech Daresbury Halton Project, led by Gina Czarnecki.

The project works closely with local schools to provide additional support and resources, helping students feel confident applying for opportunities such as the STFC work experience programme.

Gina Czarnecki, Project Lead, Sci-Tech Daresbury Halton Public Engagement Project, said:

“This programme gives students an incredible opportunity to explore STEM hands-on and see what’s possible. It’s inspiring to watch their confidence grow and their ambitions take shape. The feedback shows just how powerful these experiences can be for young people locally.”

Opening doors to STEM careers

With STEM employment projected to continue growing over the coming years, programmes like this play a vital role in helping young people understand future career options, both within STEM and in the many supporting roles that help science thrive.

Phill Day, STFC Daresbury Laboratory Public Engagement Manager, added:

“Thanks to the dedication of our staff, we’re able to offer a significant number of placements each year to local students. Expanding the programme to include STEM support roles alongside core STEM placements has opened even more doors, helping young people see that a future in STEM really can be for them.”

Apply now

Applications close at the end of February, with placements running from June to August.

Further information about the programme and how to apply is available at: https://stfc-workexperience.co.uk/applydl/

 

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