Congratulations to a long-term Great Science Share for Schools champion School!
This year marks Great Science Share for Schools 10th year and we are proud to continue to share the stories of success!
On this occasion it’s time to congratulate the pioneering work of a Salford primary school who have gone above and beyond in their science sharing across their science community.
Christ the King RC Primary School in Walkden have taken part in the GSSfS campaign for the past 8 years and have grown their science share to incorporate a local cluster of primary schools.
Read on to find out how Shane Nolan (Year 3 Teacher & Science Subject Leader) and Nicola Potts (Head teacher) describe the successes of their GSSfS activity and how it has grown over the years and tells us about winning a prestigious award!
Christ the King RC Primary School has been awarded the Overall School Laudato Si’ Award for 2025, presented by Bishop John, and colleagues from the Laudato Si’ Centre during a special event at Wardley Hall, Salford. This honour recognises the school’s outstanding commitment to environmental education, inspired by Pope Francis’s encyclical Laudato Si’: Care for Our Common Home.
What does the award celebrate?
The award also celebrates the work of a local cluster of Catholic primary schools who, over the last eight years, have participated in a unique Year 2 science initiative held annually at the Laudato Si’ Centre. This event proudly takes its lead from the Great Science Share for Schools, founded by Professor Lynne Bianchi and her team.
Each year, our cluster’s Laudato Si’-themed event reflects the core messages of both Laudato Si’ and the Great Science Share—placing children’s voices, curiosity, and care for creation at the heart of scientific learning. The projects presented by pupils have consistently explored current environmental challenges, empowering young scientists to develop ideas and actions that protect our planet.
The Laudato Si’ Centre at Wardley Hall is the Diocese of Salford’s response to Pope Francis’s international call for ecological conversion. Since opening in 2019, the centre has welcomed over 3,000 visitors, becoming a vibrant place of education and outreach for schools, parishes, and community groups.
What is a GSSfS at the centre like?
Using the estate’s woodland and green spaces, the centre offers practical opportunities for people of all ages to learn how to live more sustainably and take meaningful action to combat climate change.
Questions that were asked, investigated and shared included:
What materials float or sink in ocean water?
How does warmer water affect coral reefs?
What happens when oil spills into the sea?
Which substances dissolve in ocean water?
How do sea creatures blend into their environment?
What were the benefits for pupils of taking part in this special GSSfS?
There are so many benefits to pupils in terms of:
Empowering young scientists
Improved communication skills
Developing interest / curiosity in science
Improving confidence
Developing problem-solving skills
Increasing inquisitiveness
Collaboration with many different people
“Taking part in the Great Science Share is such a simple but powerful way to inspire curiosity and confidence in young scientists. We’ve been involved since the beginning—whether sharing between classes, with our local cluster, or at events like the RHS Bridgewater and Laudato Si Centre Great Science Shares. It builds a legacy of collaboration, excitement, and meaningful science learning that lasts far beyond the day itself.”
The staff and pupils at Christ the King were delighted to accept the award on behalf of all the schools involved and expressed heartfelt thanks to the Laudato Si’ Centre team, the Great Science Share team, and everyone who has supported this joyful collaboration over the years.
Professor Lynne Bianchi commended the school, saying:
“Huge congratulations for this – it’s fantastic to see the pupils receiving this award and being part of the global Great Science Share for Schools community. We’re so proud of all that you do!”
Have you saved the date?
Sign up to GSSfS today and save the date for
Tuesday 16th June 2026.
Lots of new information about the campaign theme and enquiries will be shared in Autumn.
Enjoy the summer break!