Each topic will be covered in films, interactive activities and worksheets as well as lesson and lab ideas, with supporting curriculum links for England, Wales and Scotland.

We’ll be launching the following five topics over the coming months. Why not sign up for update alerts:

Analysing performance

How can we measure physical performance? It's the only way to tell if a training programme or special diet is really working and, potentially, help spot future champions when they are still young. In this topic, students learn about and try the latest scientific methods for measuring the limits of the human body.

Champions of technology

Last year's London Olympic and Paralympic champions relied on state-of-the-art technology to win. Bikes, boats, boots, and bows designed, tested, and refined to the point where the difference between gold and silver was millimetres or milliseconds. Find out how physics, chemistry and biology can help the human body go faster, further and higher.

Anatomy of success

Our bodies are incredibly complicated machines. In this topic, students discover how major joints work and why top performers in different sports are such different sizes and shapes. You can even work out what physiques are best suited for different sports.

Food for success

Taking in the right mix and amount of nutrients is vital - not just in top-level sports but for everyone to ensure the right growth, repair and energy levels. This topic helps students build a scientific understanding of why we eat and what foods we should consume to improve physical well-being and enjoy a healthy lifestyle.

Brain Power

Positive attitude and motivational psychology. As we learn more about how the brain works, it comes as no surprise that these techniques actually work. It's not just gamesmanship and trying to psyche-out your opponent. Learning the tricks of developing a positive self-view doesn't just give you the edge in sports. It can change your life.

Curriculum coverage

The Scientists in Sport programme provides direct support for the science curriculum by encouraging students to use scientific methods to devise, develop and test ideas and explanations. Working together to plan and carry out investigative activities, students will need to show creativity, flexibility and teamwork. By evaluating their evidence, they will develop an appreciation of the strengths and limitations of scientific methodology.

The Fast Forward Challenge

From March, you can also enter the Fast Forward Challenge – an exciting competition in partnership with the Vodafone McLaren Mercedes Formula 1™ team. In this challenge, teams of students have to devise a test to help the Vodafone McLaren Mercedes drivers improve their reaction time and concentration. It fully supports the science curriculum for 11-14 year olds.

GSK STEM Ambassadors

If your school is located near to one of our UK sites you can request a free school visit from one of our STEM ambassadors. Please note that these visits are very popular and may be become over-subscribed.

If you have a question about the programme or you’d like to give us some feedback, please contact us at scientistsinsport@gsk.com. Ambassadors and teachers can still access the 2012 Scientists in Sport anti-doping resources

To keep up to date register your interest and receive news about Scientists in Sport and the Fast Forward Challenge.