Manorbier crowned champions at the 17th Welston Challenge

MANORBIER CIW VC School were crowned champions of the closely contested 17th Welston Challenge. The victory was made even more meaningful as the school prepares to close at the end of the academic year.

Organised and delivered by the Dragon LNG Darwin Experience, the event was held at the Welston Court Science Centre and hosted by Dr Stephanie Matthews and Professor Tony Campbell CBE, founders of the Darwin Centre. This year’s Welston Challenge saw the next generation of scientists put their observation, teamwork and investigative skills to the test.

The competition brought together Year 4 pupils from Manorbier CIW VC, St Florence VC and Sageston CP schools for a day of hands-on scientific discovery. Throughout the day, pupils rotated through four practical workshops, each designed to develop scientific knowledge alongside the essential skills of observation, communication and teamwork.

The workshops included:

• Pond Dipping with Amy Belcher, investigating the fascinating invertebrates and amphibians living beneath the water’s surface;

• Woodland Nature Walk with Dr Stephanie Matthews and Penny, exploring woodland habitats, biodiversity and the wildlife surrounding the science centre;

• Bioluminescence in the Dark Laboratory with Samantha Williams, discovering the remarkable chemistry behind organisms that produce their own light through a series of interactive demonstrations and investigations;

• Microscopy Skills with Dr Valerie Morse, where pupils examined a range of plant and animal specimens collected from the pond, uncovering the hidden diversity of freshwater ecosystems.

The Welston Challenge has now been held 17 times and has been inspiring young learners since 2007. The competition continues to inspire generations of young scientists through memorable, hands-on STEM experiences. Year after year, it encourages pupils to discover that science is driven by curiosity, observation and a willingness to ask questions, qualities that were on display throughout this year's competition.

The standard of competition was exceptionally high this year, with all three schools demonstrating excellent listening skills, curiosity and enthusiasm for learning. Pupils impressed the judges with their thoughtful observations, willingness to ask questions and ability to work together to solve scientific challenges.

Pupils had the opportunity to interview Professor Tony Campbell about his pioneering scientific discoveries, his career in research and the experiences that shaped his journey in science. Their thoughtful and inquisitive questions sparked fascinating discussions and gave pupils a valuable insight into life as a scientist. it was a highlight of the day.

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

"The Welston Challenge is all about inspiring curiosity and giving young people the confidence to explore, question and investigate the world around them. Every team showed outstanding enthusiasm, listened carefully, asked thoughtful questions and embraced every challenge.

“It was particularly rewarding to see the pupils interviewing Professor Campbell about his career and scientific discoveries. Congratulations to Manorbier on a fantastic and well-deserved victory, and to all three schools for making this year's event such a success.”

Manorbier School’s involvement gave pupils a memorable final experience of the annual science competition and a trophy they can proudly take back to their school community.