The kids are alright when it comes to science!
More than 200 pupils from schools across the region joined forces at Manchester town hall to celebrate Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) subjects.
The ‘Great Science Share’ on Wednesday was a landmark event to recognise Manchester being declared this year’s European City of Science.
It came ahead of the EuroScience Open Forum later this month, a variety of events ranging from robotics competitions to science conferences. Students have come from as far afield as Malaysia and Italy to celebrate Manchester’s new title.
Around 240 whiz kids from over 30 Greater Manchester schools gathered in the Great Hall at Manchester council’s headquarters for the Great Science Share, to showcase their scientific knowhow to the Lord Mayor of Manchester, Carl Austin-Behan, and Professor Danielle George from the University of Manchester .
The youngsters carried out table-top experiments on various topics, including friction experiments with balloons and other materials, and sound experiments capturing the loudest shouters. There were also ‘Science Buskers’, kids who walked around the room showing off tricks – like magic tricks using science.
There was also a performance by Stellarium, a new youth dance performance project by Dance Manchester and The University of Manchester, which brings together arts and science.
Dr Lynne Bianchi from the University of Manchester said: “The main aim of the day is for young people to enjoy sharing their science learning with others. It provides an ideal opportunity to raise the profile of science in primary schools.”
Manchester’s scientific talent should come as no surprise.
The city was where Ernest Rutherford first split the atom, Rolls first met Royce, and Alan Turing created the first programmable computer.
Dr Bianchi added: “It is a key opportunity to hoist the sail high for science in our amazing city and beyond.”
Director of the European City of Science, Annie Keane said: “It was fantastic to see young people take the lead and showcase their passion for science to friends, family and their local communities as part of Manchester’s special year as European City of Science.”
A week-long ‘Science in the City’ festival, beginning as schools break up for summer (22-29 July), will have over 40 free pop-up events around the city.
