MCED Science Competition sparks innovation and teamwork

MCED Science Competition sparks innovation and teamwork

15 September 2025

The Metro Central Education District (MCED) hosted its annual Science Competition on Saturday, 6 September 2025, at York Road Primary School. Now in its eighth year, the event once again proved to be a powerful platform for igniting curiosity, creativity and a love for science among learners.

Launched in 2016 by Francois Jones, Natural Science and Technology Subject Advisor at MCED, the competition was designed to bring science to life through hands-on, inquiry-based learning. What began as a single-day showcase has evolved into a catalyst for establishing STEM clubs in schools, nurturing the next generation of scientists, engineers and innovators. Despite a two-year pause during the COVID-19 pandemic, the competition remains a highlight on the district calendar, with 20 schools selected each year to take part.

This year, 13 primary schools and four high schools took part, each presenting a series of experiments that demonstrated scientific principles and problem-solving skills. Teams of up to ten learners had just ten minutes to set up, conduct and present at least three experiments, gaining valuable experience in presentation, teamwork and lab safety.

Thanks to ongoing support from Dr Shaheed Hartley and the non-profit Advancing Knowledge NPC, MCED schools continue to benefit from fully equipped science laboratories. To date, labs have been delivered across the district, ensuring that interactive learning extends far beyond competition day.

The 2025 winners were:

• Primary Schools:
  • Rosmead Central Primary – sponsored by the Sasol Foundation and partners
  • Windermere Primary – supported by SAASTA and others
  • Sunlands Primary – sponsored by Table Mountain Cable Way and partners

Best Behaved Group: Blomvlei Primary (sponsored by SANParks)

• High Schools:
  • Islamia College – sponsored by Sasol Foundation, CTSC, and partners
  • Oaklands High – supported by Golden Valley Lodge, Two Oceans Aquarium, and others
  • Oude Molen Technical High School – sponsored by IZIKO Museums and partners

The energy and enthusiasm of the day reflected the dedication of learners and their mentor teachers, who prepared tirelessly for the competition. For many participants, the event marks the beginning of a deeper journey into STEM, equipping them with skills and confidence for future studies.

As MCED continues to champion science education, this annual competition has become a beacon of what can be achieved when schools, teachers, learners and community partners work together to inspire future innovators.