By Alex D and Morven P, Year 12

This year, we had the incredible opportunity to take part in the GreenSTEM project, an initiative that brings together Year 12 students from NHEHS, Greenford High School, Ellen Wilkinson School for Girls, and Dormers Wells High School. The programme allowed us to dive into real-world STEM research, working in small groups to tackle pressing global challenges.

At NHEHS, we auditioned for the project by delivering presentations on sustainability topics of our choice. It was a fantastic opportunity to explore cutting-edge ideas, and we covered a wide range of subjects, from piezoelectricity and Perovskite solar cells to making water usage more sustainable.

The project itself took place over four sessions, with each group focusing on a major scientific and sustainability challenge. The topics we explored this year included:

– Land use change, zoonosis, and emerging infectious diseases

– Managing resource depletion: Oil in Europe

– Land use change, ecosystem services, and biodiversity loss

Through these sessions, we had the chance to develop research skills, analyse complex data, and propose creative solutions to some of today’s most pressing environmental issues. It was an eye-opening experience that pushed us to think critically, work collaboratively, and apply scientific knowledge beyond the classroom.

One of the best parts of the project was getting to collaborate with Arianne and Ugo, two PHD students from Imperial College London. They were a huge help throughout the programme, giving us personalised feedback on our essays, tips on presenting, and even guidance on academic writing techniques such as referencing. Their expertise and support made a real difference, and it was inspiring to learn from scientists actively working in the field.

The day of presenting our research, which took place in the beginning of February, was one of the most exciting moments of the programme. It started out with us visiting Imperial College London, where we were given a tour by current students. Walking through the campus and hearing firsthand about university life in London and STEM courses was truly inspiring. Seeing what it’s like to study at such a prestigious institution gave us a clearer picture of what the future could hold. We then got to give our final presentations with our groups at the Natural History Museum. Presenting our research in such a prestigious venue was both thrilling and slightly nerve-wracking; standing in a space surrounded by so much scientific history made the moment feel even more significant. After our presentations, we attended a prize-giving ceremony, where some of our very own NHEHS year 12’s won awards! It was an amazing feeling to see all our hard work recognised, and we couldn’t have been prouder of everyone’s efforts.

Looking back, the GreenSTEM project was an incredible journey that taught us so much, not just about STEM and sustainability, but also about teamwork, research, and public speaking. We would like to give a massive thank you to Arianne, Ugo, and the team at Imperial College London for their invaluable guidance, as well as to all the teachers and organisers who made this possible. We feel so lucky to have been part of this!