Science Education

We bring science to your school

AgResearch’s Education Officer, Colin Nicol, is taking our science and research to New Zealand classrooms – free of charge.

He visits New Zealand schools year-round, using his extensive teaching and science background to adapt presentations so they directly address the assessments for some of the current Unit and Achievement Standards.

Schools are provided with printed resources for students, while teachers receive a manual with the student handouts and other supporting material for the topic.

Secondary school students learn a simple technique of DNA extraction via seeing their own DNA derived from cheek cells. They can run an electrophoresis gel to become more familiar with the technique and its applications.

Gene splicing, cloning and transgenesis practicals are covered, along with the topical biological control of possums that relates well to the current biology curriculum.

Colin visits primary schools to work with teachers and/or students to increase their familiarity of, and interest in, science. Topics include kitchen chemistry and microscope use and he’s happy to design resources to fit any other specific topic you may be working on.

To find out more about AgResearch’s commitment to Education, contact Colin on (07) 834 6621 or email