A day of exploration and discovery

The event brought together teams of budding scientists from seven First and Primary Schools across South Staffordshire and Wolverhampton, as Merridale Primary School, Castlecroft Primary School, Bantock Primary School, Perton First School, Birches First School, and Christ Church Junior School joined St Nicholas CE First School.

Organized by Mr. Joshua Piggott, the Science Fair celebrated the wonders of science through collaboration, exploration, and hands-on learning.

The event featured pupil-led investigations, where children, from Year 3 to Year 6, assumed the roles of Scientists and Researchers, running engaging “tabletop” activities to showcase their findings while delving into the research of others. The presence of esteemed special guests elevated the experience:

Dr. Jenny Watson amazed attendees with ‘Science Magic Tricks' and a Forces Workshop.

Researchers from the University of Birmingham led sessions on Electricity and Recycling, while also running captivating table-top displays.

Geologist Andrew Tait fascinated young minds with his Geology table-top exhibit, sparking interest in rocks and fossils.

The day encouraged participants to embrace the essence of science: curiosity, experimentation, and collaboration.

Voices from the Fair

The event’s success shone brightly in the glowing feedback from attendees.

Joshua Piggott’s perspective: “The Science Fair was a real success! It provided a collaborative opportunity between schools for the children to think like scientists, ask big questions, and share their brilliant scientific enquiries and ideas whilst also learning from each other and real-life scientists.” 

Children’s perspective: “This day was the best. First we got to charge batteries with fruit and veg, then extracting DNA from strawberries and making a harmonica – amazing!” George Wainwright, Year 3 pupil from St Nicholas CE First School. 

 “Thank you for this lovely day of Science. I’ve had a brilliant day and enjoyed every moment that I’ve been here. I have experienced a lot of new things and found out LOTS of facts.” Zarin, a pupil from Castlecroft Primary School.

“Science is also magic. We got to ride a hoverboard. It was so fun. Science is so fun!” Sagal, a pupil from Bantock Primary School.

“I was happy seeing different science and learning how to be a scientist.” Victoria, a pupil from Bantock Primary School.

“Today I’ve learned about different rocks and fossils. I’ve used a magnifying glass to see the tiny details. I enjoyed taking DNA from a strawberry!” Anisha, a pupil from Bantock Primary School.

“I think today was really good as I like how all of the stalls were pupil-led and how many demonstrations about science there were”, Jagvir, a pupil at Christ Church Junior School.

“What I liked most was the different types of science and the mixing with other schools. I also enjoyed the workshops and running our own stall.” Dominic, Christ Church Junior School.

“I really liked the variety of different stalls and all the different activities you could do. I also loved the dact that children were leading the stalls which meant they’d have an amazing time as well. Can there be another one? I loved it,” Gabriella, Christ Church Junior School

“I’ve loved everything – the mixing with other schools, learning about different Science types and making an instrument,” Oliver, Perton First School 

School Leaders and Staff: “It was wonderful to bring new schools into our network to celebrate their love of Science. The motivation of children throughout the Science Fair was high and the opportunities for enquiry based conversations and child led investigations were inherent to it's success. Children weren't "doing Science" they were being scientific. The sessions with Dr Watson mesmerised children and staff and challenged lots of misconceptions. It was a real success!” Jodie Parker, Headteacher of St Nicholas First School.

“Many thanks for organising such a super day. Our children thoroughly enjoyed it and were able to tell me about all the things they experienced.” Andy Dyall, Headteacher of Castlecroft Primary School.

“Our children had an amazing day. We really appreciate all the hard work you have put into organising this!” Anne Bennett, Headteacher of Perton First School.

“Seeing all the different investigations being led by the children was wonderful to see” Kerrie Cain, Science Lead at Christchurch Junior School

“The Science Fair at St Nicholas was a fantastic opportunity for children to be inspired by other scientists. It was also a brilliant chance for children to develop and practice their oracy skills when showcasing their own practical Science station.” Jack Newcombe, Science and Maths Lead at Merridale Primary School

“The children all gained so much from working with other children on things they love!” Dan Jones, Science Lead at Birches First School

Visiting Scientists: “It was a pleasure seeing all those inspired young scientists yesterday. Well done for all the organisation and hard work you did putting it all together and WELL DONE YOU. Lots of lovely children who clearly REALLY enjoyed the day.” Dr Jenny Watson.

“ It was lovely to meet really enthusiastic students - definitely some budding future geologists! One boy from Bilbrook said geologist was second on list as a career after football player! I said he could do both.” Andrew Tait, Geologist.

“the students from all the schools really impressed us with their enthusiasm, questions, scientific ideas and knowledge and by how confidently and politely they interacted with us. They were great!”, Neil Drury, Associate Professor at University of Birmingham.

Parents: “My child had an amazing day and loved it all. She really enjoyed the magic science too. Thank you for organising and allowing her to take part, she got a lot of it.” Parent of a Year 3 child at St Nicholas.

A Community Celebration

The Science Fair not only celebrated scientific achievement but also strengthened the community bonds between schools in local area, echoed in the overwhelming positive feedback from pupils and staff. The day concluded with a shared sense of accomplishment, leaving children, teachers, and scientists enthused and inspired to pursue further exploration.