STEM's future is bright: #700STEMChallenge finalists shine

The event, a testament to the enduring allure of STEM subjects no matter your gender, drew hundreds of essay submissions from over 20 schools across the United Kingdom.

This year's competition saw over 200 essays shortlisted, with 28 exceptional finalists awarded first, second, and third place prizes across the Under 14, Under 16, and Under 18 age groups in Science, Technology & Engineering, and Mathematics categories.

The event was further enriched by insightful talks from an esteemed judging panel, offering valuable advice and inspiration for future STEM careers.

Inspiration from the Experts:

Science: Jo Marchant, PhD, a New York Times bestselling author and freelance journalist, shared her journey into science writing, emphasising the importance of engaging readers intellectually and emotionally. She highlighted that science is not just a collection of facts but a process of testing beliefs and building understanding.

Technology & Engineering: Justin Bean, an architect and PhD student, praised the finalists for their thought-provoking topics and emphasised the crucial role of questioning assumptions in STEM. He stressed the dynamic nature of knowledge and the need for future-proof designs that adapt to evolving understanding.

Mathematics: Dr. Anastasia Kakou, a Lecturer at LSE, shared her personal journey, highlighting the importance of inspiring teachers and the power of applying mathematics to real-world problems, citing her experience in investment banking. She also addressed the gender and minority gap in STEM, advocating for greater representation.

The winning essays showcased a diverse range of fascinating topics, demonstrating the breadth and depth of the students' interests:

Science

U14 1st - Wormholes - Freddie Brooks, Colfe’s

U16 1st - What is the Physics behind a pirouette? Georgia McBride, Wimbledon High School GDST

U18 1st - Epigenetics and Healthcare - Alisha Kamara, Sydenham High School GDST

Technology/ Engineering

U14 1st - Nanorobotics: How can we use it to increase life span? Omaira Anand, Alleyn’s

U16 1st - The Truth Beneath the Pixels: The Rise and Risks of Deepfakes - Diana Chorna, Alleyn’s

U18 1st - Can AI replace human doctors in the next 50 years? Aanya Shadija, Sheffield Girls

Mathematics

U14 1st - Mission Impossible: Why are Some Problems in Maths Impossible to Solve? Max Lau, Alleyn’s

U16 1st - Jigsaw Puzzles: A guide for beginners - Lily Oliver, Wimbledon High School GDST

U18 1st - The Mathematics of Rollercoasters - Isabella Williamson, Streatham and Clapham High School GDST

The #700STEMChallenge serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring appeal of STEM education. The event highlights the importance of fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and a passion for discovery in young minds.

The judges, in particular, stressed that the future belongs to those who are willing to ask the next big question. The commitment of students, and the quality of their work, clearly shows that the future of STEM is in good hands.