Kingston College Level 2 and Level 3 BTEC Health and Social Care students had a productive trip to the Alexander Fleming Museum where they learned about his discovery of penicillin.

Nestled within St. Mary's Hospital, the museum is dedicated to the life and work of Sir Alexander Fleming, a Scottish scientist who is best known for his discovery of penicillin.

The students learned about the fascinating life and career of Fleming, who was born in 1881 in Ayrshire, Scotland. After completing his medical degree at St. Mary's Hospital Medical School, Fleming served in the Army Medical Corps during World War I, where he witnessed first-hand the devastating impact of infection on soldiers.

Upon returning to civilian life, Fleming began working at St. Mary's Hospital as a researcher, where he conducted a series of experiments that would ultimately lead to his discovery of penicillin.

Students found the visit englightening with one commenting:“The trip was interesting, I learnt a lot about bacteria and how it works and the history behind antibiotics. The man who was telling us about Sir Alexander Fleming was clearly very passionate and dedicated to his job, which was nice to see.”