WCRC Research Fellow Dr Mat Clement recently led on an exciting public outreach activity at Jenner Park Primary School, aimed specifically at engaging Year 6 students in the fascinating world of science and medicine. This annual event is part of an ongoing effort to educate children aged 8-11 about the immune system and to challenge preconceived notions about scientists and clinicians.
The event featured four interactive stations that allowed students to explore various aspects of the immune system and infection control through hands-on activities.
The first station, “Snot Making,” was a crowd favourite, where students learned about the significance of snot colour in diagnosing infections. The children eagerly got their hands dirty with the ingredients, creating different snot samples and enjoying the messy yet educational experience.
At the “How Clean Are Your Hands?” station, students swabbed their hands before and after washing them, using agar plates to visualise the importance of proper hand hygiene in preventing infections. This visual demonstration effectively conveyed the critical role of handwashing in health.
The “Microscope Station” offered a close-up look at blood slides through interactive microscopes with screens, enabling students to identify different immune cells. This station provided a unique opportunity for the children to see the building blocks of the immune system firsthand.
The “Design Your Own Germ” station encouraged creativity as students used plasticine or drawings to create their own germs. Discussions about how these germs might function and impact different parts of the body helped break down barriers about what scientists and clinicians look like, promoting inclusivity in these fields.
Throughout the day, the children donned lab coats, goggles, and gloves, adding to the fun and authenticity of the scientific experience. Dr Clement noted, “It’s always delightful to see the kids dressed up and ready for science, even if it takes a bit of a battle to get their gloves on!”
Feedback from the students and teachers was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing excitement and newfound interest in science. Dr Clement has been invited back for next year’s event, where they hope to inspire another group of budding scientists.