Students at The Wallace High School brought science to life during National Biology Week 2026, participating in an action-packed week of practical workshops, guest lectures, and creative competitions.

Inspiring Future Scientists Through Expert Insight Into Biology

Part of the Royal Society of Biology’s nationwide initiative, WHS Biology Week featured guest speakers from the world of science and industry, offering students from Year 8 through to Year 14 direct insight into modern life sciences.

Throughout the week, senior A-Level students engaged with industry experts across biomedical science, pharmaceuticals, and medical technology:

Cancer Research: Daniel Crummey, a PhD researcher at Queen’s University Belfast’s Johnston Cancer Research Centre, spoke to Year 13 and 14 students. He detailed his academic journey beginning with his A-Level choices and progressing to a degree in Biomedical Science, followed by a Research Master’s Degree in Cancer Medicine. Now undertaking a PhD at Queen’s, his talk offered pupils a valuable insight into the realities of cancer research, the importance of developing more effective treatments and the exciting possibilities of a career in scientific research. He explained how these experiences shaped his interests and ultimately led him to pursue a career in cancer research, providing pupils with a realistic view of medical research careers.

Biocatalysis & Pharmaceuticals: Dr. Jane Mueller from Almac delivered an engaging presentation on biocatalysis, explaining how fundamental biological concepts are applied to modern drug development and biotechnology, while highlighting different career pathways and opportunities that students can follow at Almac.

Prosthetic Innovation: Stephen Lowry, the first person in Northern Ireland to receive a multi-articulated prosthetic hand, demonstrated state-of-the-art sensor technology developed by COVVI. During his presentation, Stephen explored the remarkable evolution of prosthetics, from early mechanical hooks to today’s sophisticated myoelectric and sensor-driven devices. He explained how sensors positioned on the user’s arm detect electrical signals generated by muscle activity, allowing the prosthetic hand to respond to the user’s intended movements and grip patterns.

Pupils were then given the exciting opportunity to control and manipulate a prosthetic hand themselves, using sensors attached to their own arms to trigger its movements. This hands-on demonstration offered a fascinating insight into the relationship between biology, engineering, and medical innovation, highlighting the potential of these developments to transform people’s lives.

Hands-On Learning in Biology

Wednesday brought one of the most eagerly anticipated activities of the week, the annual KS3 Dissection Workshop. Guided by Biology staff and senior student mentors, students in Years 8-10 investigated the structures of hearts, kidneys, and chicken feet, exploring how their different anatomical features relate to their functions. The practical experience allowed pupils to develop their understanding of human and animal anatomy while bringing topics studied in the classroom to life. There was great enthusiasm throughout the sessions as pupils got the opportunity to investigate these biological structures first-hand.

The week also highlighted student creativity through school competitions:

Year 8 pupils embraced the annual Biology Cells Challenge, producing an impressive collection of models demonstrating their understanding of animal and plant cell structures. Pupils showed great imagination in their designs, with creations ranging from detailed Lego and craft models to delicious homemade cell cakes! The standard was exceptionally high, with prizes awarded to the best cell models in each class. Congratulations to Emily; Elise; Jack; Nadia; Ethan; Lewis; Phoebe and Poppy for their superb cell models.

Celebrating Creativity and Achievement in Biology

The ever-popular A-Level Biology Bake Off enabled senior pupils to put their baking skills and scientific creativity to the test. The entries showcased an impressive range of Biology-themed designs, with this year’s winning creation was a Eutrophication cake by Laney and Victoria (Year 13). Summer (Year 14) secured second place with her ‘Worms in Soil’ cupcakes, while Alex (Year 13) took third place with his detailed Plant Cell shortbread.

The annual WHS Biology Quiz challenged pupils from every year group with a series of questions tailored to their respective Key Stages. There was plenty of enthusiasm as pupils put their biological knowledge to the test. Congratulations to this year’s winners: Logan (Year 8), Theo (Year 9), Sophie (Year 10), Kirsten (Year 11), Lily and Sophie (Year 12), Aaron and Caleb (Year 13) and Carys (Year 14). Mrs Davison also secured the title of top-performing staff member for the second consecutive year!

Reflections on Biology Week

Commenting on pupil engagement, Miss Cairns, Biology Teacher, added:

“It was wonderful to see the enthusiasm and creativity shown by pupils throughout Biology Week. From constructing cell models and investigating anatomical structures to hearing about careers in cancer research and experiencing prosthetic technology first-hand, there was something for everyone to enjoy.”

The Wallace Biology Department is always encouraged by the high level of student engagement throughout the week. It is particularly rewarding to see pupils exploring Biology in new and exciting ways and discovering the breadth of opportunities the subject has to offer.

Reflecting on the success of the week, Dr Susan Terris, Head of Biology, said:

“Biology Week 2026 has once again highlighted the enthusiasm and curiosity of our pupils. It was fantastic to see so many students getting involved, whether through practical investigations, creative challenges, or listening to professionals working in the life sciences. Opportunities such as these allow pupils to appreciate the relevance of Biology beyond the classroom and inspire them to consider the exciting career possibilities ahead.”

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You can find out more about last year’s Biology Week in the article below:

Biology Week at Wallace 2025