Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) through the Hitachi Inspire STEM Education Outreach Programme

We are delighted to share that the Science Department at St John Henry Newman Catholic School has successfully secured a prestigious loan of a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) through the Hitachi Inspire STEM Education Outreach Programme for January - February 2027.

The programme is delivered in partnership with the Institute for Research in Schools (IRIS), Hitachi High Technologies, the Royal Microscopical Society, and Oxford Instruments, and gives schools access to advanced scientific equipment typically only found in universities and research laboratories.

A scanning electron microscope is very different from the microscopes students are familiar with in school laboratories. Rather than using light, the SEM uses a beam of electrons to produce incredibly detailed images of a sample's surface. This allows students to explore microscopic structures at magnifications far beyond the capabilities of standard classroom microscopes.

Students will be able to investigate:
• The surface structures of plants and insects
• Material textures and corrosion
• Airborne particles and environmental samples
• Microscopic details invisible under standard light microscopes

The SEM also includes specialist chemical analysis equipment, allowing students to identify which elements are present in a sample — bringing together biology, chemistry, physics, and materials science in a truly interdisciplinary way.

The application process was highly competitive, making this a significant achievement for the department. The successful proposal outlined plans to use the SEM across KS3–KS5 through curriculum lessons, student-led research projects, STEM enrichment activities, and outreach opportunities with other schools.

The project will include:
• Curriculum-linked microscopy activities
• Student research investigations
• SEM Ambassador roles for Sixth Form students
• Potential CREST Award and EPQ opportunities
• Outreach and live demonstration sessions

Students involved will gain first-hand experience of working with equipment used in real scientific research and industry, helping to develop practical skills, analytical thinking, and scientific curiosity.

Mr Chris Wilkinson, who led the application process, said:
"This is an incredibly exciting opportunity for our students. Access to this kind of technology is rare in schools and will allow students to experience genuine scientific research in a way that is engaging, challenging, and inspiring."

Head of Science Kathryn Nichol added:
"We are absolutely thrilled to have secured the SEM loan. Opportunities like this help bring science to life and allow students to experience the excitement of discovery first-hand. We're already looking forward to the amazing images, research projects, and collaborations that will come from this."

The Science Department will begin planning the programme over the coming months, with staff training taking place later this year.

Find out more about the programme via the Institute for Research in Schools (IRIS):
The Institute for Research in Schools - Official site