What a Week for Science!
It has been an exceptional week for science at the Prep School, with pupils in Years 3 and 5 enjoying exciting extension visits to the highly equipped science laboratories at the senior school. These specialist sessions were designed to stretch, challenge and inspire our young scientists, giving them the opportunity to experience science beyond the classroom and see how the skills they develop every day can be applied in exciting and meaningful ways.
Year 5 pupils were immersed in a fascinating physics and engineering challenge, investigating the science of motion through the design, construction and testing of their own marble runs. Whilst undoubtedly great fun, the activity also provided an excellent opportunity to deepen their understanding of forces, one of the key topics within the Year 5 science curriculum.
Using specialist equipment, including ramps, marbles and electronic light gates, pupils explored how gravity, friction and changes in height and angle affect the movement of an object. They investigated how energy is transferred through a system and discovered how careful engineering and design can influence the speed and success of a marble run.
The challenge introduced pupils to authentic scientific methods. They learned the importance of conducting repeated tests to improve the reliability of results and calculated average times from multiple trials. Using their measurements, pupils then calculated speed using the formula:
Speed (m/s) = Distance (m) ÷ Time (s)
By collecting and analysing real data, the children gained valuable experience of how scientists and engineers investigate, evaluate and refine their ideas.
The project required a wide range of technical and learning skills. Pupils measured, planned, tested, evaluated and modified their designs, demonstrating impressive resilience and determination throughout. Teamwork was essential, with groups collaborating effectively to solve problems, overcome setbacks and improve performance through careful observation and repeated testing.
The excitement in the laboratory was palpable as the completed marble runs were put through their paces. Watching their designs come to life and seeing the results of their investigations unfold was both exhilarating and rewarding. The experience provided a valuable insight into the work of engineers, physicists and designers, helping pupils appreciate how the scientific concepts they learn in the classroom underpin the technology and innovations that shape our world. For some, it may even have sparked an interest in future careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
Meanwhile, Year 3 pupils stepped into the role of biologists and nutrition scientists during a fascinating investigation into food, diet and healthy living.
Building upon their learning about balanced diets, nutrition and the Eatwell Guide in science, wellbeing and EDGE, the children explored what different foods are made of using a series of genuine laboratory tests. Working like real scientists, they carefully followed experimental protocols to identify the nutrients present in a variety of food samples.
Pupils used Benedict’s reagent to test for sugars, observing how the solution changes colour when heated if sugars are present. They also carried out iodine tests for starch, witnessing the dramatic colour change to blue-black when starch is detected. In addition, they explored how scientists test for fats and proteins and learned how the energy content of foods can be determined.
The children approached the practical work with enthusiasm and great attention to detail. It was wonderful to see how confidently they handled laboratory equipment, followed scientific procedures and recorded their observations. Their curiosity and engagement throughout the session demonstrated just how much they enjoyed the challenge of carrying out authentic scientific investigations.
The experience reinforced the important links between food, nutrition and health, helping pupils understand how scientific knowledge informs the choices we make about what we eat and how we look after our bodies.
Our pupils thoroughly enjoyed experiencing science in action and in doing so, they develop the curiosity, critical thinking, teamwork and problem-solving skills that lie at the heart of scientific enquiry.
We are extremely grateful to the staff at Caterham Senior School for providing such inspiring opportunities and for helping to nurture the next generation of scientists, engineers, medics and innovators.
