Polymer Study Tours
Inspire the Next Generation of Scientists and Engineers
Join us in supporting Polymer Study Tours (PST)
For years, Polymer Study Tours (PST) have been empowering teachers with the knowledge and tools they need to inspire future scientists and engineers. Delivered by IOM3 with the support of The British Plastics Federation and our partners, these intensive two-day residential courses are designed to bring the fascinating world of polymers to life.
Upcoming 2026 Polymer Study Tours
The next tours will take place on the following dates:
- Lancashire Polymer Study Tour, hosted by Victrex in Thornton Cleveleys, on 14 and 15 June 2026
- North East Polymer Study Tour, hosted by Biffa Polymers in Seaham, on 3 and 4 July 2026
- East Yorkshire Polymer Study Tour, hosted by BERICAP in Hull, on 6 and 7 November 2026
- Midlands Polymer Study Tour, hosted by AMCOR in Rushden, on 27 and 28 November 2026
Why Polymer Study Tours matter
Many teachers lack in-depth knowledge of polymers, despite their importance in the curriculum for various design-based subjects. PST addresses this gap by providing teachers with a comprehensive understanding of polymer structure, properties, processing, and environmental impact. Through expert-led lectures, discussions, and practical exercises, teachers gain valuable insights and a toolkit to enhance their classroom teaching.
Benefits to you and the Polymer Industry
By supporting PST, you help create a positive force for the polymer industry. Teachers who attend these tours develop a greater enthusiasm for polymers and the ability to teach the subject professionally. They can accurately convey the story of polymers, offering a balanced perspective on sustainability, life cycle analysis, recycling, and disposal issues. This not only improves public perception but also highlights the industry as a potential source of employment.
Empowering Teachers
Teachers who participate in PST gain a broader knowledge of the polymer industry, leading to increased interest and confidence in teaching the subject. The courses are approved for Professional Development by the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining, and attendees receive a certificate for their PD portfolio.
How You Can Help
Polymer Study Tours cost around £7,500 to run, but are free for teachers, with a £250 contribution available for travel or supply cover costs. This is crucial in times of reduced school budgets. We rely on the generous support of companies within the polymer sector to sponsor these tours and cover the costs for teachers. Previous sponsors have praised the courses and the benefits they have gained from their involvement.
Get Involved
There are many ways you can support this initiative. To learn more about the various sponsorship opportunities, please contact Ms. Fozia Ghadiali at the British Plastics Federation.
Together, we can inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers. Join us in making a difference today!
A few words from teachers that have attended a Tour
"I really enjoyed the Polymer Study Tour and it has been the most useful CPD course that I have attended in my 21 yrs of teaching. It was interesting and very relevant to the Design Technology syllabus, especially now that the new GCSE and A level course ask pupils to select one material to study in depth; I will be choosing Polymers for my pupils of course."
"I now have a new-found motivation and respect towards teaching polymers and look forward to doing some cross curricular work between the science and DT departments in my school. I hope that this will help to allow students to see the links between the subjects and motivate them to think about careers in science and engineering."
"I feel it is vital that I am able to use real-world examples of the polymers that I teach. The site visit was a great way to bring both the science and design aspects of the plastics industry together, in a way that has deepened my understanding of the subject."
"The course exceeded my expectations by far and I am confident is going to transform my teaching of the subject. The course was incredibly well designed and paced with a packed and diverse agenda, all of it interesting."
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