Youngsters from a Tenterden school have submitted two separate projects for science contest the Bright Spark Awards – which are still open to entries.

One group of children from Homewood School and Sixth Form Centre has submitted a project looking at the impact of micro-plastics on the environment. The would-be scientists took sediment samples from a local river and analysed them in salt solution.

They said they were hoping to raise awareness of the environmental impact of micro-plastics among local businesses.

Another group used guinea pigs to lower stress levels among pupils sitting KS2 SATS exams.

The awards provide a great opportunity to engage youngsters in science. Shortlisted entrants will be invited to take part in a Dragon’s Den-style final event at Discovery Park in Sandwich in July and the overall champions win a cash prize of £500.

There will also be a number of experience awards for stand-out projects, and every finalist will walk away with something even if they do not make the top spot.

Schools now have noon of Friday June 15 to submit entries. Pupils are filmed explaining their projects, and videos of shortlisted submissions will be shown at the Discovery Park final event before the judges interview the finalists and choose the winners.

The awards aim to excite a passion for science subjects among pupils, with children encouraged to collaborate using cross-curricular skills in maths, IT, science and engineering to innovate and create.

There are no age restrictions so both primary and secondary schools can get involved, and no limit to the number of entries a school or even a group of students can submit.

The awards’ judges are Megger, Global Associates, Pfizer, Discovery Park, Benenden Hospital Trust, BAE Systems, Astro Communications and Golding Vision (part of Golding Homes).

For more information, or to enter, click HERE or contact organiser Maxine Tarquini at mtarquini@thekmgroup.co.uk