Students as Mentors: Inspiring Scientific Curiosity Across the Dulwich Community
Information provided by Mr Mackay, Biology Teacher, Assistant Head (School Development)
Led by students from Year 12 and Year 13 under the guidance of our Head of Chemistry, Mark Hayward, the science laboratories at Dulwich International High School Programme Suzhou (DHSZ) became a space not only for scientific discovery this week, but also for student leadership.
As part of the Year 2 inquiry unit at our sister school, Dulwich College Suzhou (DCSZ), young learners visited the DHSZ campus for a day of hands-on science. What made the experience especially meaningful was the role played by our High School students, who designed and led the activities, guiding the younger pupils through experiments and introducing them to the excitement of scientific exploration.
From the moment the Year 2 students entered the laboratories, our High School students stepped naturally into the role of mentors. They explained ideas, demonstrated techniques, and encouraged questions, creating an environment where curiosity could flourish, and younger learners felt supported to explore.
This collaboration reflects an important aspect of the Dulwich community: students not only deepen their own understanding but also learn how to guide and inspire others.
Students as Mentors
Throughout the session, DHSZ students led four practical investigations designed to introduce scientific thinking through hands-on exploration.
The day began with the ever-popular slime experiment, where younger students explored how different ingredients combine and change to form new materials. DHSZ mentors encouraged the group to test, observe, and think about how substances interact.
Next came the dramatic "Elephant's Toothpaste" demonstration. As foam rapidly burst from the reaction, our High School students guided the younger learners in observing what was happening and discussing the chemical processes behind the spectacle.
The exploration continued with chromatography, where students separated colours to discover how pigments can be broken down into their component parts.
Finally, the group prepared tissue samplesand used microscopes to examine cells, revealing the microscopic structures that form the building blocks of life.
While the experiments themselves captured attention, the most powerful learning came through the interaction between students. Our High School mentors patiently guided each step, helping the younger pupils understand not only what was happening, but why.
Exemplifying Dulwich Values
Throughout the activities, DHSZ students demonstrated the values that sit at the heart of the Dulwich community.
They showed Responsibility, approaching their role with care and professionalism while ensuring that the younger students felt included and supported. Members of the DHSZ community take a conscientious approach to their work and show a genuine care for others, recognising the importance of accountability in their actions.
They also demonstrated Confidence, explaining scientific ideas clearly and guiding others while remaining open to learning together. Members of the DHSZ community develop self-assurance while recognising the value of collaboration and shared discovery.
Through mentorship, our students showed that leadership in science is not only about knowledge, but also about the ability to communicate, encourage curiosity, and inspire others.
Grow in Dulwich, Thrive in Life
Experiences like this illustrate what it means to Grow in Dulwich, Thrive in Life.
At DHSZ, students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning and to contribute actively to the wider community. By mentoring younger pupils, our High School students demonstrated not only their scientific understanding, but also their ability to support others and act as role models within the Dulwich family of schools.
Head of Chemistry, Mr Hayward, shared: "As Head of Chemistry, I see first-hand how a Dulwich education provides outstanding opportunities for our students. From their very first lessons in science, students engage in practical work using equipment similar to that found in real laboratories. This hands-on experience transforms learning from theoretical ideas into real-world scientific understanding. Our students also compete in worldwide science competitions and perform at the highest levels in programmes such as iGEM and F1 in Schools. As their confidence grows, many go on to lead practical sessions for younger pupils from other schools, helping to inspire the next generation of scientists. The Dulwich Difference focuses on developing real scientists with a well-rounded scientific experience. "
At DHSZ, opportunities like this are part of a wider learning environment where students are encouraged to explore their interests deeply, develop real expertise, and contribute meaningfully to the community around them. From hands-on scientific inquiry to global competitions and mentorship opportunities, students are supported to grow not only as learners, but as confident and responsible individuals.
Open Day on 18th of April
If you would like to see how this approach to learning comes to life, we warmly invite you to join us at our Open Day on 18th of April.
Through campus visits, conversations with our teachers and students, and first-hand insight into our academic programmes, families will be able to discover how a Dulwich education supports students in developing both the knowledge and the character to thrive in an ever-changing world.
