Harrington Sound Primary School buzzed with excitement as students, teachers, and parents gathered for its recent Science Fair. Students from Year 1 through Year 6 showcased their curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking skills through themed exhibits and investigations.  

The fair was divided into two age-appropriate sections, with the Lower School students participating in a poster competition themed Adaptation and Change, where they explored how animals adjust to different environments. Students in the Upper School conducted engaging and interactive scientific investigations. Topics ranged from solar energy and replica lighthouses to potato-powered electricity and lemon batteries.

A panel of judges, including a representative from the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences (BIOS) and Dr. Rajeev Goonewardene, the Acting Science Education Officer, evaluated each project and interviewed participants to assess their understanding of scientific methods and principles.

Kaitlin Noyes, the ASU BIOS Director of Education and Community Engagement, reflected on her work with the Harrington Sound students, “It was incredible being able to speak to each student and hear about their research. There were so many creative projects and bright minds.” 

“I was truly impressed by the creativity, confidence, and scientific understanding shown by the students,” said Dr. Goonewardene. “Many projects reflected real-world STEM practices, using digital tools like multimeters and spreadsheets. This fair not only showcased hands-on learning and innovation but also aligns with our Education Transformation goals.”

The school provided real-time feedback to students, with ribbons awarded for first, second, and third place in each division. A total of 68 prizes were awarded at a Special Assembly on Monday, June 2.

School Principal Mrs. Cindy L. Weeks said, “We are extremely proud of all of the students who worked hard to demonstrate their potential as scientists of the future. As a scientist myself, I was particularly impressed by the quality of the research skills and thoroughness of the science experiences. I encourage students to continue nurturing their passion for STEM. As a school in the midst of transforming into a 21st-century parish school in September 2025, STEM will be an integral part of our offerings, along with other relevant features.

We look forward to growing our future engineers, innovators, and problem-solvers.  

“I want to acknowledge the tireless efforts of our Science Teacher Leader, Ms. Monica Smith, who coordinated and organized this phenomenal experience, as well as the judges: Torri-Lynn Correia, Dr. Rajeev Goonewardene, Lisa Siese, Yackeisha Weir-Robinson, and Kaitlin Noyes, from ASU BIOS. Each of these persons played a vital role in ascertaining the creativity and ingenuity of each project. Thank you all for an amazing event.”

Claire Fox, the ASU BIOS Science Education Officer, said, “We love helping with the science fairs and seeing the research the students are interested in. Having students engage in science from a young age is critical for our Bermudians and having them better understand the world around us.”