Discovering Chemistry at Discovering42

Mocktails

This term pupils from Bodmin College took part in an exciting trip to Discovering42 in Bodmin. This visit gave pupils the chance to explore science in a creative and hands-on environment. As part of the trip, pupils also took part in a mocktail workshop. They explored chemistry through fun, tasty activities.

Discovering42 is a unique space that brings science, art, and the environment together. The exhibition uses up cycled materials to create interactive displays. This helped pupils see that science can be creative and linked to real-world issues such as sustainability and climate change.

During the visit, pupils took part in a mocktail workshop. This activity focused on how different liquids behave. Pupils created layered drinks and watched colours change as they mixed ingredients. They also experimented with edible jelly and explored how textures and shapes can change.

This hands-on activity helped pupils understand key ideas in chemistry. They saw how density affects how liquids layer and how reactions can change colour and appearance. The session made complex ideas simple and engaging.

Pupils were encouraged to explore, test ideas, and ask questions. The space allowed them to learn through play, which helped build curiosity and confidence. They worked together and shared their findings, developing teamwork and communication skills.

The visit also helped pupils see how science links to real careers. They learned that skills in chemistry, engineering, and environmental science can be used to solve real problems. The creative setting showed that there are many different pathways into science.

By the end of the trip, pupils had a better understanding of how science can be both practical and creative. They saw that learning does not just happen in the classroom and that trying new ideas can lead to new discoveries.

“The workshop was really fun. I liked seeing the colours change and learning how it all worked.” - Pupil

This visit to Discovering42 gave pupils a valuable chance to experience science in a new way. It helped inspire them to think differently and see how they can be part of the future of science.