The Powering Potential programme run by The Royal Society, is an opportunity for students who demonstrate high performance in at least two science subjects to collaborate and research the ‘big issues’ facing New Zealand and the world.

Limited to only 40 students from schools in New Zealand, Maia Robertson and Olivia Charles have been selected to represent Columba College and the Otago region. They were invited to apply after being awarded the Premier Award at the Otago Science Teachers Association Science Fair. Their project, which focussed on different methods of mummifying rats, formed the centrepiece of their application. As part of the application process Maia and Olivia had to submit a curriculum vitae, an academic record as well as recording a 3-minute video clip, outlining their passion for science and why they would be worthwhile participants. Their application also had to be supported by a letter of recommendation from the Head of Science.

Maia and Olivia will travel up to Wellington early in December, spending four days working in teams of five and researching a science issue submitted by a scientist. The scientists who set the problems are on hand to give advice and feedback on the solutions developed by the students.

The Science Department is immensely proud of Maia and Olivia as well as the team of friends, parents and teachers who supported them during their project. The girls are now working on another project – investigating sustainable aquaponics by using waste water from the Science Department’s fish tank to fertilise crops. Initial results are looking positive, so watch this space!