GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS achievement for largest practical science lesson

Thousands of Queensland school students have today set a new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title for the largest number of students to participate in a practical science lesson.

A total of  2895 students, from 53 primary and secondary schools throughout Queensland, took part in a 30-minute science lesson involving two experiments using magnets at the Brisbane Exhibition and Convention Centre, South Bank.

The previous record was 2102 students, held by an organisation in South Africa.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk joined Science Minister Leanne Enoch to witness the historic moment.

The event was organised as part of National Science Week.

Premier Palaszczuk said Queensland’s world record success made a positive statement about young peoples’ interest in science.

“I congratulate all the students who have set this impressive GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title for the largest practical science lesson.

“It’s fantastic to see young Queenslanders so enthusiastic about being involved in science.”

Science Minister Leanne Enoch said today’s event was an opportunity for young people to be inspired by science and also encourage students to further their studies in this dynamic subject.

“We know the jobs of the future will require skills in science, technology, engineering and maths, and today’s event shows Queensland students are preparing themselves for that future.”

Queensland Chief Scientist Dr Geoff Garrett said recent research demonstrated that Queenslanders believed science was important.

“The majority of Queenslanders (76 per cent) perceive science as having a positive impact on our society while almost three quarters (72 per cent) see science as being critical for the Queensland economy,” Dr Garrett said.

An official adjudicator, representing Guinness World Records, oversaw the Queensland students’ record achievement. The previous world record for the largest practical science lesson involved 2,102 students and took place in South Africa last year.

National Science Week runs from 13 to 21 August 2016 and is Australia’s annual celebration of science and technology across the nation. Further information at: www.scienceweek.net.au