The Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology (ISMIB) recently hosted 360 Key Stage 2 pupils from local primary schools for a ‘Spectacular Science’ event.
The day was split into morning and afternoon sessions with pupils taking part in six activities that offered a mix of education and entertainment. The event was combined with University-led activities from the Widening Participation team to expand the University’s commitment to engage with the local community.
Activities included:
Skull Exploration
Michael Berenbrink guided pupils through an exploration of animal skulls, providing interesting insights into different species.
Fizzy Potions:
Laura Randle and a team from the Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics engaged pupils in a hands-on chemistry activity, creating fizzy potions with a spooky twist.
The secrets of DNA and flies
The School of Life Sciences Outreach group led two activities, one focused on unravelling the secrets of DNA using kiwis and another where children could interact with live flies in a sensory box.
Microscopic Insect Adventure
Marie Held and colleagues from the Centre for Cell Imaging offered pupils a close-up view of insects under microscopes, showcasing the fascinating world of tiny creatures.
Witch’s Secret Recipe
Helped by Olga Tereszkowska-Kaminska, Gabrielle Ecclestone and others from the Centre for Proteome Research, the children decoded amino acid letters on ping pong balls fished from cauldrons to uncover the secret protein in the Witch’s potion.
Hands-on fun was the theme of the day, with students rotating through the activities, engaging in discussions, and expressing curiosity about the scientific world.
Once recovered from the excitement of the day, Jill Madine who organised the event reflected on the event: “It was a great day with lots of enthusiasm for science from pupils, teachers and University staff and students who participated. The comments from pupils including ‘I want to be scientist when I grow up’ and ‘I want a microscope for Christmas’ highlight the importance of events like this in inspiring the next generation of scientists.”
If you have any ideas for public engagement, please get in touch with the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences Public Engagement team at: HLSEngagement@liverpool.ac.uk