Beacon help primary schools solve crimes using Forensic Science

Beacon community College has invited Year 5 students from local primary schools to take part in forensic experiments in their science laboratories.  Year 5 students from St.Michael’s Primary School Withyham were forensic scientists for the day when they attended a themed event at Beacon Community College on the 7th of December.One of the Beacon science laboratories was turned into a crime scene, “involving the theft” of the science department skeleton.  The Year 5’s investigated the area, identifying evidence to help track down the thief.

Mrs. Davies from Beacon showed the students how to use forensic techniques to examine soil footprints, fibres, powder and the ransom note left at the crime scene. They completed a range of experiments throughout the day, including flame tests, chromatography and microscopy to successfully identify the criminal.

This was the first time many of the students had been in a science laboratory and they learnt how to use scientific equipment such as Bunsen burners and microscopes safely.

Mrs. Davies was helped by four Year 8 Learning Leaders: Hayley-Marie Pearson, Phoebe D'Albertanson, Ryan Henry and Alex Charles.

Rachel Davies, Primary Science Liaison Teacher at Beacon, said:

“ One of our key objectives is to raise awareness and achievement both across the school and in the wider community. Bringing primary students to Beacon is an excellent opportunity for them to try out experiments in a real laboratory. The forensic scenario is a fun way to introduce pupils to a range of scientific concepts. St.Michael’s really enjoyed the day and I was very impressed with how well they worked in the lab. The Year 8 Science Ambassadors have been coached to demonstrate laboratory skills and they take their role in assisting the Year 5’s very seriously.”

This event is one of a series of science enhancement days that Beacon is offering local primary schools. As part of the science initiative, Beacon are working more closely with primary schools to enhance transition from KS2 to 3 science and to share resources and expertise. Beacon Community College achieved Science Specialism status in 2005 in addition to Sports Specialism.