GENE editing, ADHD in girls and even the science behind catchy songs getting stuck in your head were among the topics explored by Year 8 pupils at Sherborne Prep School this week.

The school’s annual Sherborne Project Qualification (SPQ) exhibition saw pupils present months of independent research to parents, staff, governors and visiting representatives from senior schools.

Held on Friday, June 5, the event is considered one of the biggest academic milestones of the year for Year 8 pupils, challenging them to investigate a topic they are genuinely passionate about.

This year’s projects covered a wide range of subjects, from the ethical dilemmas surrounding gene editing to why girls are often misdiagnosed with ADHD, alongside research into “earworms” – the science behind songs that become impossible to forget.

Unlike a traditional classroom assignment, the SPQ is designed to develop independence, with pupils leading their own research over several weeks, supported by mentors.

Annie Gent, head of Sherborne Prep, described the exhibition as one of the most demanding but rewarding parts of the school year.

“The SPQ and resulting exhibition is one of the most demanding things we ask of our Year 8s and is an important milestone in their final year experience,” she said.

Senior deputy head Briony Harris said the transformation in pupils is often just as impressive as the work itself.

“The child who started the project uncertain of their topic, tentative about their ability, is rarely the same child who presents it three months later,” she said.

Among those exhibiting was Jack M, whose project explored The history and hydrodynamics of wing foiling.

He said he felt proud of researching a subject in such depth and creating a project to showcase what he had learned.

Visiting the exhibition, Sherborne Boys head Simon Heard praised the standard of presentations, describing pupils as taking “genuine ownership of their learning”.