Inspiring Future Scientists at the Royal Institution: GDST Junior Science 2026

On Wednesday 4 March 2026, over 100 junior pupils from across GDST schools came together at the Royal Institution for an inspiring day of scientific discovery. Our annual Junior Science Day is designed to spark curiosity early and break down barriers to STEM, giving girls the opportunity to engage with science in a hands-on, collaborative environment alongside their peers from across the Trust.

Held at one of the most historic scientific venues in the world, the day offered pupils a hands-on introduction to STEM with aim to spark curiosity, build confidence, and show girls that science is not only accessible, but exciting, relevant and full of possibility.

Throughout the day, pupils took part in a range of interactive experiments designed to bring scientific concepts to life. In the Young Scientist Centre, they extracted their own DNA, turning abstract biology into something tangible. In the Great Crash Test Challenge, they designed and tested vehicles, applying principles of physics and engineering through problem-solving and creativity.

A key highlight was hearing directly from women working at the forefront of scientific research. Lara Walsh, a postgraduate researcher in freshwater microbial ecology, shared her work exploring the impact of environmental change on freshwater ecosystems. Her research focuses on understanding zooplankton and their parasites using advanced techniques such as eDNA and metabarcoding.

Pupils also heard from Jasmine Symons, a PhD student specialising in targeted photodynamic therapy and theranostics. Her work in cancer treatment demonstrated how science can directly improve lives, offering a powerful example of purpose-driven research.

These sessions gave pupils not only insight into cutting-edge science, but also a clearer picture of what a future in STEM could look like. Seeing young women leading in these fields is a vital step in breaking down perceived barriers.

The day concluded with an unforgettable finale in the Faraday Lecture Theatre. Led by Rosie Curran Crawley, Senior Presenter, the “Change & Adapt: A Messy Science Show” brought energy, humour and spectacle to the stage.

With explosions, dry ice and plenty of audience participation, it transformed complex ideas into something memorable and engaging. The show was also livestreamed to GDST schools, extending its reach far beyond the room.

For many pupils, the setting itself added another layer of inspiration. As Ghajinder Bansal, Science teacher at Notting Hill & Ealing High School, reflected:

“This gives them a feel of what historical science is like. Ten of our elements were discovered in this building, so when my Year 6s learn about the periodic table, I can say we discovered that in England, in the Royal Institution. It’s quite inspiring and can develop that drive and hunger towards the subject.”

That sense of connection, between past discoveries and future possibilities, is exactly what the day was designed to create.

By combining hands-on learning, real-world research and visible role models, we are continuing to make STEM more accessible, engaging and relevant for girls. The result is not just a day of discovery, but the start of a longer journey where more young women see science as a space where they belong, and where they can lead.