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Published 13 August 2020

Young school kids say thanks to our scientists

Burnet’s scientists were thrilled to receive over 100 letters from students at Malvern Primary School in Melbourne, thanking them for their efforts to find a vaccine and cure for COVID-19, and for their contributions to science.

The letters, organised by Malvern Primary mum, Dr Sarah Meachem, were written by children of all ages, from Prep to Grade 6.

Dr Meachem, who also works in Victoria’s medical research sector, was inspired to create the ‘Gratitude Project’ after hearing about a similar idea in Canada.

“I’m a science advocate and I’m very passionate about getting the message out there about how important science is. I just want scientists to feel valued,” Dr Meachem said.

“As I was sitting in lockdown I felt so helpless. Across the country many scientists are really facing uncertain times. I thought it would be great to hear thanks from the next generation of scientists. Kids just say it how it is.”

For our scientists working so hard to find a solution to COVID-19, the letters were especially touching, coming at a time when many were also dealing with Stage 4 lockdown.

“They made me laugh and they made me cry. Kids are so insightful. It was unbelievably impressive and I can’t believe how the kids understand how important scientists are,” Dr Meachem said.

Malvern Primary students were particularly thankful and concerned that some of the scientists were not able to spend time with their own families while they work tirelessly on finding a vaccine.

Emily wrote: “How important must you feel,” but assured scientists she was not trying to put them under additional pressure.

Young Charlie asked scientists to ensure a vaccine could be made available for everyone in the world, “otherwise the whole thing will just be another huge argument. Anyway, keep persisting, you’ll get there.”

Lola wrote: “Your job is so cool and you are cool too.”

The reaction to the letters was very positive when first shared with Burnet’s scientists and staff at a weekly Zoom session. Over a dozen staff have written back to the school.

“It is a fantastic initiative and all our scientists were so appreciative of the uplifting support from these young students, and we hope some are budding scientists of the future,” Burnet scientist and Director and CEO, Professor Brendan Crabb AC said. “The reaction was so positive and I know many of our scientists are super keen to thank the children and Malvern Primary School too.”