Collette Robertson is a dedicated biology tutor at Cogent Skills, where she has been inspiring the next generation of biology enthusiasts since 2022. With an Honours Degree in Biochemistry and a postgraduate degree in Secondary Education, she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience, having taught Biology at GCSE and A Level for 20 years, including 11 years leading the Biology department.

Collette’s passion for biology has evolved throughout her career, beginning with her dissertation focused on analysing the nutritional value of school meals. She was also deeply engaged in genetics and evolution during the significant era of the human genome mapping. Through her commitment to education, she strives to equip her students with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the challenges of the future. Collette shares the importance of inspiring younger generations, especially during Biology Week, which serves as a reminder of the critical role biology plays in shaping a better future.

I think it’s crucial to inspire young people to embrace science, as they are the ones who will develop innovative solutions to the challenges we face. In my teaching experience, I’ve led field trips, lectures and debates to help students understand how biology can be used to build a better future, no matter their specific interests.

At Cogent Skills, I teach Laboratory Technician apprentices about cell development, the effects of genetic and environmental factors on our body systems, and essential laboratory skills which are vital for their future careers.

To celebrate Biology Week, I have planned a BTEC Biology lesson centred around the theme ‘Biology for a Better Future’. My learners will study the nervous system and the structure of the synapse, specifically looking at Parkinson’s disease. This will allow them to understand the impact of dopamine deficiency at these critical junctions in the brain and how it leads to issues with muscle control. As we know, treating Parkinson’s can be particularly challenging because most drugs cannot cross the blood-brain barrier. However, biologists have made great strides by developing treatments that convert drugs into dopamine once they enter the body, allowing them to act effectively at the synapse.

This knowledge is integral to their qualification and I’m excited to extend their learning by discussing future developments in treatment. Recently, advancements have transformed drug administration for Parkinson’s patients, moving from taking up to 20 tablets a day to using a continuous infusion through a cannula powered by a pump. This new approach allows for better management of the condition with fewer side effects.

By providing my students with a strong foundation in Biology and inspiring them to pursue their passions, I am committed to contributing to the development of future scientists who can effect positive change in our world.