British Science Week at SWPS: A Week of Curiosity, Discovery and Hands-On Science | Sir William Perkins's School (SWPS) Skip to content Book a visit School news News article Academic 25 March 2026 British Science Week at SWPS: A Week of Curiosity, Discovery and Hands-On Science 25 March 2026 Share on Science in Action at SWPS British Science Week brought an exciting sense of curiosity and discovery to Sir William Perkins’s School, with students across the school taking part in a wide-ranging programme of workshops, talks, debates and hands-on STEM activities. From Sixth Form analytical chemistry to biological investigation and interdisciplinary engineering challenges, the week offered students the opportunity to explore science beyond the classroom and experience how scientific thinking shapes the world around us. Year 9 Explore STEM in Action Our Year 9 students travelled to London for an inspiring STEM in Action experience, where Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics were brought vividly to life. From biomimicry and advanced engineering concepts to geometry, materials science and AI in chemistry, students engaged with ideas at the forefront of innovation. Experiences such as this exemplify our commitment to developing intellectually curious, future-ready learners. At SWPS, STEM is not simply a group of subjects, but a way of thinking – one that encourages students to question, explore and imagine the possibilities ahead. Spectroscopy in a Suitcase We were delighted to welcome Owen, Ellie and the postgraduate team from the University of Southampton for our annual Spectroscopy in a Suitcase workshop. Year 12 and Year 13 chemists, alongside students from a partner school, worked with infrared spectroscopy, mass spectrometry and NMR to identify and analyse unknown compounds. This academically rigorous session provided both an excellent introduction for Year 12 and valuable consolidation for Year 13, while developing the analytical precision and problem-solving skills essential for further study in the sciences. Teacher TED Talks As part of Science Week, our “Teacher TED Talks” offered students a compelling insight into the diverse pathways within science. Dr Limburn-Peterson’s Jack of All Trades, Master of One explored a curiosity-driven journey through materials science, from cutting-edge research to the realities of innovation. Dr Masri’s Bad Medicine examined the evolution of medical practice, while Mrs Lewis’s Molecules That Have Changed (My) Life revealed the profound impact of chemistry on both society and personal experience. Collectively, these talks highlighted the breadth of scientific careers and reinforced the value of intellectual curiosity as a driver of discovery. Dissection Club In Dissection Club, students engaged in a detailed exploration of anatomical structures, examining cow eyes and chicken feet to deepen their understanding of movement and vision. This hands-on experience provided a powerful complement to classroom learning, bringing biological concepts into sharp and memorable focus. Sixth Form Assembly Our Sixth Form STEM ambassadors – Eden, Ella, Jen and Katie – delivered a series of thoughtful and inspiring assemblies, reflecting on how curiosity has shaped their academic journeys through A Levels and the wider 3 A Levels Plus enrichment programme. Through personal examples and super-curricular work, including research into bioluminescent fungi and interdisciplinary projects such as F24, they demonstrated the depth and breadth of opportunity available to students who pursue their intellectual interests with ambition. Curious Question Time Podcast Recorded during Science Week, the Curious Question Time podcast brought together Year 12 student hosts and a panel of science teachers to explore over 100 student-generated questions. Spanning themes from the nature of the universe to sustainability and scientific careers, the discussion modelled rigorous, open-ended thinking. The episode, soon to be released as part of the SWPS Spotlight series, reflects a culture in which curiosity is actively nurtured and celebrated. Year 10 NHS Insight Day Year 10 students with an interest in healthcare visited St Peter’s Hospital, gaining first-hand insight into careers in physiotherapy, nursing and emergency medicine. Through conversations with professionals, students developed a clearer understanding of the diverse pathways into healthcare and the personal and professional qualities required to succeed in these demanding and rewarding roles. Science Week Lessons Across Science Week, students engaged in a rich programme of practical and discussion-based learning designed to promote curiosity, independence and critical thinking. From microbiology investigations and chemical reactions to engineering challenges and ethical debates, lessons encouraged students to question, hypothesise and explore with increasing confidence and autonomy. Teachers modelled inquiry-led approaches, creating an environment in which curiosity is not only encouraged, but expected. Curiosity Carousel The Atrium was transformed into a dynamic, museum-style environment for the Curiosity Carousel, where students from Years 7–13 explored a wide range of scientific phenomena. Led by Year 12 science leaders, the event invited students to engage directly with experiments and artefacts, from microscopes and chemical reactions to physics demonstrations. This immersive experience fostered independent exploration, reinforcing the value of curiosity-driven learning. Mission to Mars Year 7 students concluded their Mission to Mars project, an ambitious and interdisciplinary challenge requiring them to design and justify every aspect of a future crewed mission to the Red Planet. From launch physics and planetary science to sustainable living systems, each group approached the project with creativity, rigour and intellectual curiosity. Students presented their findings to peers and a judging panel that included senior staff and professional planetary scientist Professor Andrew Coates. Congratulations to the teams selected for the Grand Final: • 7W: Bella, Ilyana, Isher, Sara and Shivani • 7X: Alannah, Isla, Sydney and Annabelle • 7Y: Lara, Edie, Josephine and Hanna • 7Z: Amaarah, Lavanya, Nina and Elyssia Following an impressive final, the overall winning team from 7Y was announced in whole-school assembly. Their presentation was distinguished by its clarity, creativity and scientific rigour. This project exemplifies the spirit of learning at SWPS – ambitious, collaborative and forward-looking – equipping students with the skills and mindset to thrive in an ever-evolving world. More news Back to all news Academic • 26/03/2026 British Science Week students quiz the teachers Academic • 25/03/2026 Exploring the Duke of Edinburgh Award Co-curricular • 25/03/2026 A historic day for Perkins Rowing Back to all news