Nick Barker Inspires Rugby School Students with a Vision for Science, Aspiration, and Teamwork

This term, Rugby School’s Chemistry Department welcomed science educator Nick Barker for an inspiring lecture on the power of mentorship, self-efficacy theory, and the role of teamwork in solving the world’s greatest challenges.

Nick, who works for the University of Warwick, is embedded full-time in schools in areas of severe social deprivation, providing consistent, high-level science education from primary school through to age 18. His mission is to raise aspirations, offering students access to role models, career advice, and university pathways that were previously out of reach. His impact is undeniable—at one school where no student had ever gone to university before his arrival in 2018, five have since secured places.

Exploring self-efficacy theory, Nick explained that for students to thrive, they need three crucial elements: experience of mastery in a subject, a role model, and a mentor. His work ensures these elements are present, transforming outcomes for young people who might otherwise be left behind.

Beyond education, Nick challenged students to think about the major global problems their generation must solve—from antibiotic resistance and ocean waste to the surprising 7% of global warming caused by cement production. These are complex, interdisciplinary challenges that demand creative solutions. “Humans solve problems by working together,” he reminded the audience, highlighting the importance of cognitive diversity—the idea that diverse teams are more innovative and productive than homogeneous ones.

At the end of the lecture, Dr Belding, Head of Chemistry, told students:

“This wasn’t just a lecture; it was a challenge. Science isn’t about facts—it’s about fixing the world. If you want to make a difference, find a team, think big, and get to work.”