Annual Darwin Science Competition sees record numbers of participation

This year's virtual competition was a success across the globe 

Once again circumstances dictated that the Darwin Science Competition take place in a remote format for the second year running, but the number of teams entering has never been higher. With 39 submissions the competition was fierce and, with geography not a consideration, the 21 participating schools were located all around the UK and even internationally!

The 2021 competition focused entirely on the quiz this year (with hopes to re-introduce a practical element in person in 2022). Teams of four Year 7 pupils battled over rounds on space, famous discoveries, eminent scientists, sounds from nature and the traditional biology, chemistry and physics to win the coveted trophy. Having such a breadth of teams entering necessitates a challenging set of questions to split them and the pupils rose to the challenge admirably, with some highly impressive scores and many reports of a great deal of fun from their teachers.

All pupils who entered will receive a certificate of participation, sent out to Schools this week.

Such has been the success of the remote competition this year and last, it is certainly something we are hoping to continue in future, even as we return to a local competition with tasks in the Shrewsbury School laboratories included.

A few teams came very close to the coveted ‘medal positions’, and all pupils received a certificate of participation. The following earn the accolade of Highly Commended:

• Aysgarth ‘1’ (North Yorkshire)
• Pembroke House (Kenya)
• Prestfelde ‘1’ (Shropshire)

In third place this year were Team 1 from Thomas’s Battersea and the second position was occupied by Team 2 from Moor Park.

Champions of the Darwin Science Competition 2021 were Team 1 from Shrewsbury High Prep School (pictured) – very well done indeed Tristan, Hamish and Sam!

The winning pupils and school will each receive a copy of The Science Book along with the trophy for display in their department.

We extend our thanks and congratulations to all pupils who took part and especially the facilitating staff at each institution; we are thoroughly looking forward to next year!

Mr David Wray

Head of Science Outreach