The year 2003 saw the 50th anniversary of the discovery of the structure of DNA. As part of the celebrations to mark this occasion and the continuing success of British science in the field of genetics, a number of eminent organisations joined forces to sponsor a national programme of events for schools. This programme, entitled Genetic Futures, was intended both to inform and to elicit the opinions of young people about the role of genetic science in the modern world. It consisted of a series of eight one-day events to take place throughout the United Kingdom in October 2003.

Sponsorship for the Genetic Futures programme was provided by The Medical Research Council (MRC), The Royal Society, The Department for Education and Skills (DfES), NESTA, The Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Health (DH) and Bio–Rad Laboratories Ltd.

The programme of events culminated in a National Forum held at The Royal Society in November. The forum was introduced with a lecture entitled ‘DNA goes to Hollywood’, followed by ‘Young Voices’, a chaired debate between pupils and a panel of experts. Every school presented a poster display, in the form of a science newspaper supplement, expressing their views and opinions on an issue related to genetic science.

The workshops and event programme were developed and organised by the Centre for Science Education at Sheffield Hallam University.