This summer, we were delighted to welcome the team from the Centre for Neonatal and Paediatric Infection (CNPI) and the St George’s Vaccine Institute (SGVI) to our Little House of Science Summer Camp! Our young scientists explored the fascinating world of bacteria, viruses and vaccines through interactive games, creative challenges, hands-on activities and plenty of discussion.

They discovered how vaccines work, learned about the remarkable story of Edward Jenner, and asked some brilliant questions along the way. Perhaps one of the most meaningful parts of the experience was giving our young scientists the opportunity to meet real scientists and hear about their work firsthand. Experiences like these help children see that science is not an abstract notion confined to textbooks or laboratories — it is something real, creative and deeply human, shaped by people who ask questions, explore ideas, solve problems and work together to make a difference. Meeting scientists, talking to them and seeing their enthusiasm can have a lasting impact.

It helps children understand that scientists are not distant figures in white coats, but real people with curiosity, passion and a desire to make the world better. Most importantly, it can help children begin to imagine themselves as scientists too — and to see that their own questions, ideas and curiosity have a place in the world of science.

A huge thank you to Dr Aidan Matthews, Danielle Caumeran, Çağıl Koçana, Emily Hughes, and Melanie Chokalingum for joining us at our camp and bringing science to life with such enthusiasm and generosity. It was wonderful to see our young scientists so engaged, curious and excited to learn. We hope that experiences like this inspire our young scientists to keep asking questions, keep exploring and, perhaps one day, become the scientists who inspire the next generation.