Year 5 pupils from local primary schools stepped into the role of forensic investigators during a series of Murder Mystery Days hosted by Wensleydale School.
The events were designed to give children an introduction to secondary school life while showing how science can be applied in real-world situations such as policing and forensic investigation.
More than 100 pupils attended the first event in March, with children taking part from Leyburn, BAWB, Cambrai, Hipswell and Middleham & Spennithorne primary schools.
A second session was later held on Friday, April 24, when more than 50 pupils from Le Cateau Primary School joined in.
Pupils were divided into five investigation teams and tasked with solving the fictional “murder” of the school’s IT manager.
Throughout the day, the teams rotated through a series of workshops where they gathered evidence and eliminated suspects.
Activities included examining a mock crime scene, interviewing suspects, carrying out flame tests on mystery powders, analysing fibres from clothing and investigating fingerprints, emails and digital evidence.
At the end of the day, each team presented its findings before the culprit was finally revealed.
Joanna McGowan, head of science, said the event gave pupils the opportunity to experience science in a practical and engaging way.
She said: “Days like this are a brilliant way to bring science to life.
“The pupils get to use equipment and techniques they may not normally have access to in primary school, while also seeing how science links to real careers in areas such as policing and forensics.
“The pupils worked incredibly well together, asked thoughtful questions and threw themselves into solving the mystery.”
Josh Hadfield, KS3 progress leader, said the events also helped pupils prepare for the transition to secondary education.
He added: “It’s a fantastic opportunity for Year 5 students to experience what life at secondary school is like, meet some of our staff, start to familiarise themselves with our school environment, and build confidence for the exciting transition to secondary school when the time comes.”
