The challenge? To solve the mysterious “murder” of Professor P.H. Scale, who had been working on top-secret scientific research. Our young Secret Science Agents were tasked with using their powers of deduction to identify which of five suspects was responsible, by gathering and analysing scientific evidence.

The morning began with spectacular explosive demonstrations from the Science Department, setting the scene for three investigative activities. Pupils tested the pH of different liquids to decide whether they were acids or alkalis and match them to substances found at the crime scene. They then used Benedict’s Test to analyse the sugar content of various foods, linking the results to items connected to the suspects. Finally, they explored correlations between human arm span and foot length to narrow down the identity of the culprit.

Working in mixed teams across all schools, pupils collaborated throughout the day, comparing results, discussing evidence and drawing conclusions. The challenge culminated in each group presenting their findings in the form of a poster and short presentation to our senior leadership team and teachers, before everyone enjoyed a well-earned lunch in Gabbies, our on-site café.

It was a fantastic morning of curiosity, teamwork and scientific discovery, enjoyed by pupils and staff alike. We look forward to welcoming more young scientists back to St Gabriel’s for future Mission Impossible events.