It was wonderful to host the Junior STEM day on Thursday this week. After a year of COVID restrictions in the Science labs, our younger pupils were ready for some practical fun.

In the morning, the Second Form enjoyed workshop sessions, making bioplastics in Chemistry, taking part in a bridge-building challenge in Physics and extracting DNA from strawberries in Biology. Much laughter was heard as the burning smells drifted from the Chemistry labs, the bridges were tested to the point of collapse and edible models of DNA were made from jelly babies and red laces.

The day provided the perfect opportunity for the Second Form to meet the majority of the Science teachers as they prepare to move into the Third Form and will be taught by three different subject specialists. There were also three presentations, firstly, from Miss Latter from the Design and Technology department. She explained the place of Design and Technology in STEM and shared her experiences of studying Design and Technology at university. She then told the Second Form what they can expect to enjoy when they study Design and Technology next year.

Next, Dr Henshaw, teacher of Physics, explained the structure of the GCSE Science courses on offer and what will be expected of them in the Third Form. There was a mixture of excitement and nervousness when the Second Form realised their Science GCSEs would start in September.

Finally, they were delighted to hear from our current A Level Chemistry students. They shared their memories of their favourite topics from the GCSE course and their advice for a Third Form pupil as they embark on GCSE Science.

In the afternoon, it was the turn of the First Form to show off their DNA sweet models and bridge-building skills, however, it was the rainbow test tubes that won the prize for colour and fun. A wonderful time was had by all and I know the Juniors are particularly grateful to the Science teachers and technicians who worked hard to make the day such a success.