Title: Science Week at Kingsmead Primary – Inspiring Change for a Sustainable Future
Pupils at Kingsmead Primary School in Northwich recently took part in an exciting and impactful Science Week. With the support of over 30 visitors, including STEM Ambassadors, scientists, and local A-level Science students from Sir John Deane’s College, the event explored the theme of Change through activities and talks which included sustainability, climate change, and innovative solutions for a better future.
A School Committed to Sustainability
Kingsmead Primary has long been committed to eco-friendly initiatives, incorporating rainwater harvesting and solar panels into the building’s design and encouraging energy and water saving attitudes in our children and school community through its active school Eco councillors. However, our pupils remain eager to expand their knowledge further and find new ways to contribute to protecting the planet.
Engaging Activities and Inspiring Presenters
Throughout the week, pupils were captivated by many workshops and talks designed to educate and inspire. Younger students explored metal recycling and learnt how to identify recyclable food packaging. They were fascinated to discover that rubber tyres can be repurposed into sandals, plastic bottles transformed into polyester fabric or car bumpers, tennis balls are recycled into court surfacing, and even chewing gum can be turned into skateboard wheels!
A highlight of the week was a visit from a Planetarium, where both pupils and staff were enthralled by a visiting scientist from Keele University. Children heard how researchers are investigating extraterrestrial life, hoping that discoveries could offer possible solutions to reduce the impact of climate change on Earth and potentially lead to the building of sustainable human settlements in space. Another guest speaker, an engineer from the European Space Tribology Laboratory, shared his experiences of working on major space missions, including the James Webb Space Telescope and the JUICE mission to Jupiter’s icy moons. He also spoke about the European Space Agency’s Zero Debris Approach, an initiative aimed at minimizing space debris by 2030.
Connecting Science to the Natural World
Workshops on biodiversity explored how climate change impacts butterflies and insects. Students learnt about the remarkable adaptation of the peppered moth, that changed colour in response to air pollution, and found out about butterflies and insects that are now thriving locally due to the salt deposits around Northwich. An expert from the Cheshire Wildlife Trust worked with children to explore habitats in the school grounds, and children then considered how they could improve different areas of the school site to provide better support for insect life and, in turn, other wildlife.
Technology for a Greener Planet
Some classes also explored the role of AI in environmental sustainability. Pupils learnt of initiatives such as using it to monitor deforestation in the Amazon rainforest and to optimize recycling and composting efforts to reduce landfill waste. Since Science week, the school has introduced designated food waste bins to commit to reducing food waste being sent to landfill.
A Lasting Impact
Science Week at Kingsmead Primary was a resounding success, igniting children’s natural curiosity, critical thinking, and their desire to help protect our planet. With many hands-on experiences with some wonderful scientists during the week, our students have been inspired to become changemakers, ready to embrace science and technology to help create a more sustainable world.
By Ruth Duberley, Science Lead