Earlier this term some of our budding A- Level biologists attended a discourse on

” The future of Transplantation – from machines to 3D Printing” at the 

Where the famous Faraday Museum is located. This discourse was given by Pankaj Chandak (surgeon and scientist) on the future of organ transplantation using novel technologies and innovations. It allowed our students to envisage a future where 3D-printing could be tailored to individual patients’ needs as they become a tangible reality that pushes the boundaries of modern medicine.

Alma had the opportunity to ask a question as she eloquently introduced herself and proudly identified Bushey Meads School as her school. The event was well attended by medical professionals, researchers, and enthusiasts in order to gain an understanding of future techniques such as warm machine perfusion’s transformative potential and 3D printing. Dr Chandak’s wealth of knowledge and pioneering work did not fail to inspire and challenge our student’s perceptions of what is achievable in medical science.

The discourse included detail about how organs that would otherwise be discarded could be utilised using the organ perfusion techniques, and special organ repair centres do currently exist. The techniques that were discussed were particularly relevant for our budding biologists, as they included a lot of the themes and topics that were being taught in the A- level biology curriculum to include; stem cells, immune system, cancer cells, mitosis as well as ethical and moral dilemmas; such as with the use of xenotransplantation.

As a teacher,  I always reflect on ways that I can inspire the next generation of scientists,  I look for how I can help each student achieve what they are capable of accomplishing, and today I see that there is nothing more inspiring for me than to see the spark in the eyes of the students who truly believe they can become something more special than they thought they could be, and I am so delighted to have attended the discourse with some of our wonderful year 12 biologists; Prisha, Alma, Emma, Angelina, Jessie and Emily. Who have been excellent role models representing our school.

These students as well as others continue to remind me that they inspire me to be a better and more inspirational teacher.