Darwin Science 2024 Summer School Trip to Shrewsbury School UK

Exceptional People Outstanding Opportunities Riverside Junior Riverside Senior Riverside STEM SHR Article

This summer, students from Shrewsbury International School Bangkok, Riverside, embarked on an exciting journey to the UK for the Darwin Science Summer School 2024, held at Shrewsbury School UK. This programme provided our students with a unique and engaging educational experience outside the classroom, where they could enhance their scientific knowledge while enjoying a wide range of cultural activities.

The Darwin Science Summer School, based at Shrewsbury School in the UK, offered Riverside students the opportunity to delve deeper into the fascinating world of the life and science of Charles Darwin, one of Shrewsbury School’s most famous alumni. The programme was run by the teaching staff at the school and focused on hands-on experiments and scientific exploration, allowing students to expand their knowledge and skills in a fun and interactive way. From dissecting specimens to assembling skeletons and even creating DNA strands from candy, students were fully immersed in the wonders of science throughout the programme.

• Dissections and anatomical studies
• Rock painting and coral fossil analysis
• Exploring local greenery and ecosystems
• Debate sessions and critical thinking exercises
• Assembling skeletons
• Creating DNA strands using candy

These activities, combining education with fun, gave students a fresh perspective on science and encouraged them to explore new areas of interest in the subject. Beyond the academic focus, students also enjoyed various cultural and leisure activities. These included:

• Taking a walking tour in the steps of Darwin around the historic town centre of Shrewsbury.
• Experiencing rowing on the River Severn, one of the sports offered at Shrewsbury School UK
• Visiting the great colleges of Oxford University, taking time to explore the collection of dinosaur skeletons and other specimens collected there. 
• Exploring the sights of London, including an afternoon behind the scenes with the scientists at the Natural History Museum and a chance to see a show in the West End 
• A whole host of fun activities from paintball to inflatable assault courses

These activities not only broadened students’ cultural horizons but also helped them bond and create lasting memories with their peers.

The UK Summer School trip provided our students with the chance to showcase their scientific knowledge while learning in a new environment. The experience helped develop their global perspectives, independence, and teamwork skills – qualities that will undoubtedly benefit them in their future academic journeys.

Students who attended the summer school have shared glowing feedback about their experience. They felt inspired by the academic activities and more confident in their scientific abilities. The trip allowed them to grow both personally and intellectually, and they returned to school with a renewed passion for learning.

The UK Summer School trip to Shrewsbury School was a resounding success, providing students with a well-rounded educational experience that extended beyond the classroom. Who knows, one of them may be inspired to work to become the next Charles Darwin!