Year 8 students Ben Waugh and Harrison Smart presented their science investigation work at the National Science and Engineering Competition finals at the NEC Birmingham.

In their investigation, the boys created a homemade toothpaste, which worked just as effectively as the leading brands but at a fraction of the cost. The boys were grilled by a panel of expert judges and were able to confidently explain the science behind their work.

Sadly they didn’t win the big prize on this occasion, but making it as far as the national finals is a marvellous achievement in its own right. They also got the opportunity to meet some of the celebrity judges, including The Gadget Show’s Jason Bradbury and BBC science presenters Dallas Campbell and Liz Bonnin.

The national Big Bang Science Fair was also taking place at the NEC, so the boys were able to experience a wide range of practical activities and demonstrations.