We are seeking 25 schools, particularly those in areas of low social mobility or with limited access to science enrichment, to join an exciting new three-year community of practice connected to the Wellcome Sanger Institute’s Tree of Life programme.

What’s in it for your students?

Participating students will:

• Take part in hands-on biodiversity monitoring (Years 7–9), including invertebrate sampling using Malaise traps.
• Progress to DNA barcoding and bioinformatics investigations (Years 10 and above).
• Build confidence in practical science, data analysis, and scientific thinking.
• Develop valuable transferable skills, including problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills.
• Engage directly with active scientific research, helping them see science as something they do, not just study.

What’s in it for teachers and schools?

Participating schools will benefit from:

• Full professional development and training for teachers, delivered by experts.
• Ongoing support from Wellcome Sanger Institute scientists.
• Ready-to-use, curriculum-linked investigations delivered with different year groups each year.
• The opportunity to be part of a long-term, nationally significant science education project.
• Enhanced science provision and enrichment opportunities for your school community.

How the project works

• The project runs over three years, engaging multiple cohorts of students each year.
• Schools will deliver two investigative projects per year with different year groups.
• Investigations include biodiversity monitoring, DNA barcoding, and (from the second year of the project onwards) bioinformatics.
• Schools will be asked to install a Malaise trap on school grounds for invertebrate sample collection.

Next steps

At this stage, we are inviting schools to submit an expression of interest. This will help demonstrate to the project funder, The Royal Society, that there is strong demand for this opportunity.

To express your interest, please complete this form by 25 February 2026. You will need to provide your Headteacher’s details and confirm their support for participation.

We would love to hear from schools keen to inspire the next generation of scientists through meaningful, authentic research experiences.