Biology Week returned to The Wallace High School this year from 13th–17th October with a vibrant programme celebrating the importance of Biology and the life sciences. In line with the Royal Society of Biology’s national initiative, pupils from every year group enjoyed a week filled with hands-on practicals, inspiring guest speakers, and friendly competition.
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Opportunities for Pupils
Throughout the week, students took part in the annual WHS Biology Quiz, with a different quiz for each Key Stage. Competition was fierce, and pupils were eager to test their knowledge. Congratulations to this year’s winners: Lucy Gorman (Y8), Holly McCann (Y9), Ellen Fleming, Bethany Culbert and Sophie Gorman (Y10), Zola Carnew (Y11), Kate Kamalarajah (Y12), Samantha Bell (Y13), Zlata Kravcenko (Y14). Mrs Davison also earned the title of top-performing staff member.
Year 8 pupils worked throughout the week on their Biology Cells Challenge, producing an extraordinary range of creative cell models that combined imagination with scientific understanding. From edible red blood cell biscuits to intricate Lego and craft constructions, the standard was exceptionally high. Prizes were awarded for the best cell model in each class set, making it a fun way to apply what the students have been learning about in Biology lessons
Careers Beyond Wallace
Dr Jane Mueller from Almac gave the first talk of the week to Year 13 students, discussing her work in Biocatalysis, offering students a glimpse into the world of pharmaceuticals and biotechnology. The talk highlighted the real-world impact of biological science and helped pupils link their A-level studies to future pathways in research, diagnostics, and drug development.
On Wednesday, excitement built as KS3 pupils took part in a Dissection Workshop—one of the most anticipated events of Biology Week. Under the careful supervision of Biology staff and senior student helpers, pupils examined hearts, kidneys and chicken feet, gaining a hands-on insight into anatomical structures and biological function. The session offered a valuable opportunity to connect classroom learning with real laboratory practice, and students’ enthusiasm was evident throughout.
Pupil Participation
Thursday began with the A-Level Biology Bake Off, showcasing the creativity and skill of our senior students. Biology-themed cakes ranged from skeleton shortbread to model lungs. Year 13 winners were Lara McArtney and Tessmary Cyril for their delicious palisade cell cake, whilst Ben Atkinson came top of Year 14 for his “Cell-a-bration” cake.
Later that morning, pupils in Years 12–14 attended a fascinating talk by Stephen Lowry, a leading figure in prosthetic-hand technology. Stephen, the first man in Northern Ireland to receive a multi-articulated prosthetic hand, explained how prosthetics have evolved from wooden limbs to modern myoelectric and sensor-driven devices. Pupils even had the opportunity to control and manipulate a prosthetic hand themselves, using sensors on their own arms, giving them first-hand insight into the intersection of biology, engineering, and medical innovation. The session inspired many to consider prosthetics and biomedical engineering as potential future university and career pathways.
Competitions
Friday featured the tense and fast-paced Biology Spelling Bee Final. Pupils from across the school had taken part in heats during the week, with top pupils from each year group going head-to-head in a biology-themed ‘Spell-off’. Students had two minutes to spell as many biology-related terms as possible, with outstanding performances from everyone. Kate Kamalarajah (Year 12) took first place with an impressive 39 correct spellings, followed by Kaitlyn McMurray (Year 12) in second and Zola Carnew (Year 11) in third.
The week concluded with past pupil Dr Rachel Bingham, who spoke to senior students about studying a Biology-related degree, completing a PhD, and her current work in cancer research at Queen’s University Belfast. Her talk offered invaluable insight and inspiration to pupils considering future study and careers in science.
A Week of Discovery
Reflecting on the week’s success, Head of Department Dr Susan Terris said:
“Biology Week 2025 showcased the curiosity, creativity, and enthusiasm of our students. From hands-on dissections to engaging talks and inventive projects, it was inspiring to see pupils exploring biology beyond the classroom. Events like these ignite a real passion for science and highlight opportunities in biological research and related careers.”
Commenting on pupil engagement, Miss Cairns, (Biology Teacher), added:
“It was wonderful to see students fully immersed in all the activities, from designing cell models to baking biology-themed cakes and even trying a prosthetic hand. I am very pleased the week ran so smoothly, thanks to the support of our fantastic science technicians, which allowed everyone to enjoy the experience. Biology Week not only celebrates learning but also sparks curiosity and new ideas that could shape students’ futures.”
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You can read all about Biology Week 2024 in the article below:
Last modified: November 12, 2025
