Free event for sixth form students
Matters of Conception
In 2005, UK law changed so that sperm and egg donors could no longer be anonymous. The first children born after this law change will turn 18 this year and will have a right to discover their genetic heritage. Around 1 in 170 births in the UK are from donated sperm or eggs.
In light of this, we are hosting a special, free event for Sixth form students to explore the technology, genetics and ethics around fertility, donors and family.
Thursday 5 October, 9:30am – 3:30pm.
This full day event is being run in partnership with the NHS, Northumbria, Sunderland, Teesside and Newcastle universities. The day will open with a keynote speech from our NHS partners on site. Students will get the opportunity to participate in a series of workshops with activities including the chance to take a VR tour through the reproductive system and interpreting medical imaging. The final session of the day will be an inclusive discussion with a panel of experts as to whether our genetic heritage really matters in a modern family.
The day is suitable for Year 12 or 13 students with an interest in biology/genetics and/or careers in the NHS (particularly medicine, sonography and midwifery).
Places are free and will be initially limited to 3 students per school plus one member of school staff.
Please note: students must be accompanied by a member of school staff and will be expected to bring a packed lunch.
This event is in partnership with the NHS Newcastle Fertility Centre at Life, which celebrates its 25th birthday this year.
