The Challenge
Science Snippets is a fast-paced science communication competition where competitors have just four minutes to present a scientific idea, topic, or area of special interest.
As Richard Feynman famously said:
“If you can’t explain something to a first-year student, then you haven’t really understood it.”
Your task is to communicate your chosen topic clearly and engagingly to a Year 9 audience.
How to enter
To apply, simply:
- Record a 60-second video of yourself speaking about your chosen science topic or specialism
- Submit your video via the link below
- Complete and return the permission form at the time of entry
- Successful applicants will be notified on Thursday 2 April 2026 and invited to compete live on 18 May 2026, expanding their idea into a four-minute science presentation.
Judging Criteria
Competitors will be judged on the following four areas:
Content – scientific accuracy and depth
Clarity – how clearly ideas are explained
Creativity – originality and engaging presentation
Captivation – how well you hold the audience’s attention
Key Information
Entrants are required to submit a short 60 second video on their chosen topic.
Entries open on Monday 2 February 2026 at 8am
Entries close on Sunday 29 March 2026 at 5pm
2026 Judging Panel
Special Guest Head Judge: Professor Steve Cross
Guest Judge: Paul Pickard, Head of Science, Woldingham School
Guest Judge: Sharon Wade, Headteacher Hilden Oaks Prep School
Nick Waite, Head of Science, Tonbridge School
Science Ambassador, Tonbridge School
Permissions forms and submissions
Please ensure you have completed the submission form below to enter in this year’s competition as well as the permission form. and send it to our Science Coordinator, Lisa Alford at lisa.alford@tonbridge-school.org.
