Science is magic! PJ’s most passionate JK Rowling readers participated in an escape room activity, designed to show how much fun science can be. Learners received their Hogwarts letters earlier the week, which provided clues to their meeting place. After finding platform nine and three quarters, learners tried their hands at potion making, the ancient precursor to modern chemistry.

The next clue led learners to the lab, where they revealed a message hidden behind iron filings, by using a magnet. Learners then deciphered a code on a map, using high frequency light, to reveal writing that was not visible under normal light.  Their book knowledge was tested when they used statements about previous Hogwarts headmasters, to find their next clue. A handful of ashes and red feathers directed learners to the phoenix, that serves as a reminder of the devastating fire PJ experienced in 2012.  Here learners discovered that a red filter can be used to block certain frequencies of light, so that a muddle of colours may expose a hint. Learners then used a mirror to reflect text, while daring to eat “Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Beans”, with flavours such rotten milk, spicy meat and sprouts.

An electronic circuit and plant root presented a screaming mandrake plant which caused quite a few screams before it could be silenced. The last clue led them to a very dark tunnel, where learners had to overcome their claustrophobia in order to gain the code that would open their rewards. Learners each received a golden snitch to take away as prize.

Reading is probably the most important factor that influence learners’ progress at school. We trust that these learners will be ambassadors who will promote reading to their peers.