THIS term, Pembrokeshire schoolchildren came together to experience science with Dragon LNG and the Darwin Centre in a day-long anniversary celebration at Haverfordwest.<br />The Merlin Theatre at Pembrokeshire College came alive with curiosity and creativity as pupils from St Teilo’s, Coastlands, Neyland and Monkton Priory took part in a special Science Spectacular event celebrating 20 years of the Dragon Darwin Experience.<br />The full-day celebration brought together young learners from across the county for a hands-on programme of STEM workshops, reflection and performance, marking two decades of inspiring schools through science, technology and environmental learning.<br />Throughout the day, pupils rotated through a series of interactive workshops led by expert partners: <br />Tim from Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum introduced learners to the future of renewable energy and sustainability. <br />Ginny and Orla from Pembrokeshire Hogspital delivered an engaging wildlife conservation session focused on hedgehog care and protection. <br />Eugenia from Braintastic Science challenged pupils’ perception with a workshop on optical illusions and sensory science.<br />A particularly special part of the day saw each school share a display showcasing their work with the Dragon Darwin Experience over the past 20 years. Pupils proudly presented their favourite activities, projects and fieldwork memories, offering a powerful reflection on the programme’s long-term impact.<br />Following lunch, the whole group gathered in the Merlin Theatre for a high-energy, science-based stage show from Braintastic Science. “That’s Non Sense!” explored the complexity of the human senses through mind-blowing illusions, demonstrations and audience participation. Pupils discovered why spinning makes us dizzy, how the brain can be tricked, and even explored lesser-known senses such as proprioception, all delivered with humour and excitement.<br />St Teilo’s Catholic Primary School in Tenby issued a “huge thank you to Darwin for organising such a fun and inspiring day – we loved every moment!<br />“Our brilliant ambassadors, Jack and Peyton, gave a wonderful presentation all about our school’s Darwin Science journey over the years – sharing how much we’ve learned and grown.”<br />Monkton Priory School called the experience “another amazing, fun filled day of science.”<br />Samantha Williams, Darwin Centre Manager, said:<br />“This event was a wonderful celebration of everything the Dragon Darwin Experience represents — curiosity, confidence and hands-on learning. Seeing pupils from four different schools learning together, sharing their memories and being completely absorbed in science was incredibly special. The Science Spectacular perfectly captured the spirit of our 20-year journey.”<br />For further information about the Dragon Darwin Experience and its work with schools across Pembrokeshire, or to book a free STEM session for your class, contact: darwin@darwincentre.com.
