More than one million pupils from 58 countries have been asking, investigating and sharing the scientific questions that matter to them through The University of Manchester's Great Science Share for Schools campaign.
The milestone marks the largest level of participation in the campaign's history, having launched in 2016. This demonstrates the growing global appetite for teachers to upskill in how to engage 5-14-year-olds in practical science learning in schools.
Teachers and their pupils have been involved in thinking about scientific questions that interest them. Time has been dedicated to encouraging them to plan and undertake investigations, gathering evidence and drawing conclusions on topics ranging from nature, weather, motion and materials.
Under the annual theme 'Globally Curious', the pupils' questions have demonstrated creativity, curiosity and wonder.
- Which is the smallest animal that makes the biggest difference in our environment?
- What do ants like to eat the most?
- How does friction affect the distance a car travels?
- How do different exercises affect your heart rate?
- How do my clothes shed microfibres and does it matter?
Teachers and educators across the globe get involved in many ways. As an inclusive campaign, sharing events take place in schools, gardens, zoos, hospital schools and community spaces. This year saw the campaign expand its reach into Slovenia and Spain, with bespoke training for teachers and translated materials that increasingly support engagement globally.
Brompton-Westbook Primary in Kent was the school that took registrations beyond the million mark. Claire Hofer, the school's Science Lead, said Great Science Share for Schools has enabled their pupils and teachers to do more enquiry-based science, which they share with other pupils at a showcase event at the Discovery Park in Sandwich.
Similarly, The University of Manchester welcomed 31 schools from across Greater Manchester to its Nancy Rothwell Building for a large in-person event, where pupils showcased their investigations and discoveries with the Lord Mayor encouraging them on.
The Great Science Share for Schools campaign was founded by Professor Lynne Bianchi, Vice Dean for Social Responsibility at The University of Manchester, to elevate the prominence of science in the classroom through learner-led enquiry, inclusive participation and collaboration.
Professor Bianchi said: "2026 is a truly great year for GSSfS by reaching this huge milestone. This makes a huge difference to teachers and young people, as well as showing that there is keen interest to raise the profile of science education for all. As the university's From Manchester to the world 2035 strategy really takes pace, GSSfS models our values towards social responsibility and widening participation."
Grace Marson, Campaign Manager for Great Science Share for Schools, added: "We are really proud that the campaign continues to grow as this means it is continuing to support teachers to upskill their own knowledge and develop pupils' confidence in science enquiry."
As participation surpasses one million pupils for the first time, the achievement comes amid a new Royal Society report, calling for stronger support for public engagement with science, technology, engineering and mathematics subjects, highlighting the growing importance of initiatives such as Great Science Share for Schools.
