Biotechnology in schools: The UK experience

Biotechnology has gained a significant presence in shcool teaching in the United Kingdom over the past decade. This process has been encouraged by some centrally funded initiatives, but has also been due to the efforts of several independent individuals and groups who have recognized the need to focus on this burgeoning area of scientific research and development, and the contribution that it can make to enlivening the curriculum. Developments in the UK have both benefited from and contributed to similar projects overseas. Biotechnology is set to become increasingly prominent in socio-economic terms for the foreseeable future. It is vital that this is reflected in our educational system and that the preliminary work in this respect is allowed to evolve concurrently.