Highfields students embraced this year’s British Science Week with a range of interactive lessons and workshops focused on the theme Change and Adapt. From hands-on experiments to live animal encounters, students across all key stages explored how adaptation has shaped life on Earth and how science continues to help us evolve.
Key Stage 3 students delved into the various challenges humanity has encountered throughout history, highlighting the critical role of adaptation for survival. They investigated how technology has aided our adaptability and participated in a "Survival of the Fittest" hands-on activity, utilizing different tools to mimic bird beaks in diverse environments.
For Key Stage 4 and 5, students took part in workshops featuring advanced equipment provided by Amgen UK, a prominent global independent biotechnology firm dedicated to creating innovative medicines for serious health conditions. Through the Amgen Biotech Experience (ABE), the company has introduced over a million students worldwide to hands-on biotechnology education, equipping both teachers and students with research-grade tools at no cost.
Year 13 Biology students engaged in a genetic engineering project designed by Amgen that closely aligned with their curriculum on manipulating genomes. They had the opportunity to genetically modify a DNA segment, verify its functionality using PCR, and insert it into a bacterial cell with specialised equipment typically found in university settings. This experience deepened their understanding of theoretical concepts while allowing them to enjoy the exciting aspects of scientific research!
The Amgen Biotech Experience offers an extraordinary opportunity for our students, many of whom may never encounter university-level equipment and resources. It has been a true joy to impart these skills and hopefully inspire the next generation of geneticists and science researchers.
Students in Years 9, 10, and 12 Biology participated in an introductory program focusing on the significance of measurements, and learned to use a micropipette for handling small volumes. They then completed a challenge to create an image using a set of coordinates and their micropipette.
A highlight of the week included a visit from Simon Airey, known as Animal Man, who brought his remarkable collection of animals to the school. With over 40 years of experience in educational presentations, Simon's focus on the theme of Change and Adapt was perfectly aligned with our objectives. Year 7 students were captivated by his knowledge, not only regarding the animals he showcased but also concerning the urgent need for human adaptation in response to the ongoing loss of biological diversity—a significant global issue driven by an expanding human population and rising resource demands.
Throughout the day, Simon presented to all 280 Year 7 students in three separate sessions. Students were astonished by the unique adaptations of animals, such as the Chinchilla, which possesses 80 hairs per follicle compared to humans' single hair per follicle. While beneficial, this trait has unfortunately contributed to a 90% decline in the wild Chinchilla population over the last 25 years due to hunting and habitat loss.
Simon also introduced the students to his pygmy African hedgehog, which amazed everyone with its spines made from the same protein found in human hair and nails. As the day went on, students learned about the essential role of insects in pollination, discovering that many everyday products, including chocolate, depend on these vital creatures. They were also introduced to a range of invertebrates, such as Giant Borneo stick insects, Madagascan hissing cockroaches, and Giant African millipedes. The emperor scorpions, which appeared black under visible light but glowed under UV light, left a lasting impression on the students, some of whom overcame their fear of spiders by handling various species of tarantula.
Simon’s presentation continued with fascinating tree frogs and the well-known Giant African Bullfrog, affectionately named Jabba. The finale featured an exploration of the captivating world of reptiles, where students encountered species like a baby tortoise, a Yemen Chameleon, a monitor lizard, and a selection of impressive snakes, including a boa constrictor and a Brazilian Rainbow Boa raised by our own Mr. Frost.
The students were absolutely fantastic, eager to absorb every piece of knowledge shared. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Amgen UK and Simon Airey for their support in making this week truly remarkable.
