To mark Chemistry Week, over 800 students created a striking 32m² molecular mural, with students from Nursery to Sixth Form each contributing an individual molecule tile. The celebrations culminated in a live art installation produced by Year 12 students at the front of the School, captured spectacularly by drone footage.

Throughout the week, teachers from the Senior Divisions and A Level Chemistry students visited the Nursery, where 30 children enjoyed making bubbles, experimenting with colour-changing solutions, and designing their own chromatography badges. The children were delighted with their creations and proudly took their badges home.

Elsewhere, New Hall welcomed a guest speaker from the Medical Research Unit at Anglia Ruskin University, who delivered an engaging talk to Sixth Form students on the future of nanomedicine.

Mrs Katherine Jeffrey, Principal, commented: “We were delighted to celebrate Chemistry Week through a range of exciting initiatives. In a world driven by technology and shaped by rapid scientific advancement, the importance of a strong STEM education has never been more evident. At New Hall, our students learn to approach complexity with curiosity, confidence, and creativity, through problem-solving, applying knowledge to real-world situations, and developing strong research skills.”

To round off the week, the Chemistry Department visited the Preparatory Divisions for the “Move Like a Molecule” show. Alongside dynamic chemistry demonstrations, pupils took part in an interactive performance illustrating the reaction between hydrogen and oxygen molecules to form water, becoming the molecules themselves as part of the show.

Dr Brogden, Head of Chemistry, commented: “Chemistry Week was a wonderful opportunity for our School community to come together and explore the beauty of Science in a hands-on, creative way. Watching our youngest learners experiment with real curiosity was truly inspiring, and the enthusiasm across all ages showed just how powerful and accessible science can be when it’s brought to life.”

STEM students continue to excel at New Hall. At GCSE this year, 60% of Biology, 56% of Chemistry, and 51% of Physics grades were awarded at the highest 8+ (A*) grade.