QPHS magazine - Spring Term 2026 - Magazine - Page 5
BRIGHT IDEAS
Designing for a greener future
Five talented Year 9 students from QPHS recently took part in
the highly respected Unilever Inspire Programme, a national
initiative that encourages young people to think creatively, solve
real-world problems and explore the possibilities of STEM.
This year9s challenge invited teams to design and pitch a product
that helps reduce the impact of climate change and plastic waste
and 8Team QPHS9 rose to the task with enthusiasm and flair.
Our students developed an innovative range of pet-safe probiotic
cleaning products, designed to create a healthier home
environment while avoiding the risks traditional cleaning
chemicals can pose to cats, dogs and other household pets.
Their pitch explored everything from packaging design and
formulation, to how social media could be used to promote the
product to eco-conscious consumers.
Each student presented confidently to a panel of Unilever judges,
showcasing not only their creativity but also their ability to
communicate ideas clearly and professionally. As a result of their
hard work, all members of the team achieved a Discovery
CREST Award, a nationally recognised STEM achievement.
The programme was an inspiring experience for our Year 9
students, giving them the chance to think like real product
designers, engage with industry professionals and tackle
environmental challenges with fresh ideas. Their creativity and
confidence shone throughout the day, and they represented
QPHS brilliantly.
Students worked both independently and
collaboratively to devise their presentation.
I am really proud of the work they have done
and how they represented QPHS to the panel.
Students also had the opportunity to speak to
numerous employers about how they use
STEM in their roles with Unilever.
Miss Sutton,
Curriculum Team Leader for Science
