Dragon Darwin Experience marks 20 years with Science Squad success

OVER the past two decades, the Dragon Darwin Experience has provided more than 80,000 young people across Pembrokeshire with opportunities to explore science, develop their curiosity, and connect with STEM professionals and organisations.

Back in June 2026, for the final Science Squad event of the academic year, Year 5 pupils from primary schools across the Milford Haven cluster gathered at Milford Haven School, taking part in a hands-on chemistry investigation led by industry professionals from NutraSteward.

The Science Squad programme, delivered through the Dragon Darwin Experience, is designed to support pupils' transition from primary to secondary education by bringing together enthusiastic young scientists from across the cluster for a series of STEM enrichment days at Milford Haven School. The programme provides pupils with opportunities to develop scientific skills, build confidence in a secondary school environment, and engage with scientists and STEM professionals from a range of disciplines.

The programme began in the autumn term with an astronomy session led by local physicist Dr Mark Smith, where pupils explored black holes, the life cycle of stars, and some of the most fascinating phenomena in the universe. During the spring term, pupils joined the Darwin Centre team to investigate the biology of squid, learning about cephalopod adaptations and anatomy through a hands-on dissection. The final session of the year focused on chemistry, with pupils taking part in the Royal Society of Chemistry's Global Experiment alongside NutraSteward.

Seth and Maru from NutraSteward guided pupils through an investigation into the vitamin C content of a range of fruits and vegetables. Through the experiment, pupils developed laboratory skills, collected and analysed data, and gained a deeper understanding of the role of vitamin C in nutrition and health.

Alongside the practical work, Seth and Maru shared insights into their own educational and career journeys, providing pupils with a valuable opportunity to learn more about careers in science and the diverse pathways available within the STEM sector.

Samantha Williams, Charity Manager at the Darwin Centre, said:

"Science Squad provides Year 5 pupils with an exciting opportunity to experience science beyond the classroom while helping them become familiar with their future secondary school. This year's programme has taken pupils on a journey from black holes and astronomy, through marine biology and cephalopods, to chemistry and nutrition. Meeting scientists and STEM professionals throughout the year helps pupils see where their own interests and curiosity could take them in the future.

“The session delivered by Seth and Maru was a fantastic way to conclude the programme. Their enthusiasm, expertise, and willingness to share their own career experiences helped bring chemistry to life for the pupils, and we are incredibly grateful to NutraSteward for their continued support."

NutraSteward has supported Science Squad for a number of years, delivering the annual chemistry session and generously sharing their expertise with participating pupils. Their ongoing partnership helps ensure that young people across Pembrokeshire can access high-quality STEM enrichment opportunities and engage directly with professionals working in scientific industries.

This year is particularly special as the Dragon Darwin Experience celebrates its 20th anniversary in partnership with Dragon LNG and Dragon Energy. The Darwin Centre has expressed its sincere thanks to Seth, Maru, and everyone at NutraSteward for helping to make this year's Science Squad programme such a success and for their continued investment in inspiring the next generation of scientists.

The Darwin Centre was recently named Educational Charity of the Year at the Prestige Wales Awards, providing a fitting finale to an exceptional academic year that has celebrated both achievement and partnership.

With preparations already underway for the 2026/27 academic year, the Darwin Centre is looking ahead to the future with confidence. The charity, with the continued support of Dragon LNG, looks forward to creating even more memorable STEM experiences and inspiring thousands more young people across Pembrokeshire in the years to come.