Young Thame scientists explore how their brains work

THE pupils of John Hampden Primary School in Thame have been learning about how their brains work, as part of the school’s annual Science Week.

The theme for this year was The Brain and Growth Mindset. Children across the whole school participated in a variety of activities to learn how their brain works and how their intelligence and abilities are not fixed, but in fact can be improved through practice and persistence.

Science Co-ordinator, Rachel Butler, explained: “Developing a Growth Mindset attitude is something which will continue to be built upon at John Hampden Primary School in the future, with the intention of inspiring our pupils to believe they can continue to learn and grow in all areas of their lives.

“Wren’s Butchers of Thame donated three pig brains for the children to look at – which certainly proved to be a talking point amongst children and staff!

“A highlight of the week,” continued Rachel, “was when Science Oxford held workshops for every child in the school. Children from Nursery to Year three learnt more about the senses, whilst Years four to six designed, made and tested marble runs.

“Each year, every child in the school takes part in a Science Week ‘Whole School Challenge’ which this year required the children to design, make and test a skull for their water balloon ‘brain’. The finalists from each class entered Friday’s Grand Final where 13 winning designs were found! Their ‘brains’ did not burst, even when thrown from the school roof!

Rachel concluded: “The children have been very positive about Science Week, some going home to continue their explorations enthused by their fun experiences at school. It’s been another enjoyable and successful Science Week for John Hampden Primary School.”