Kent’s leading school science awards are officially open for nominations and a globally renowned business has joined the search for the masterminds of the next generation.

Pfizer, the world’s largest and leading research-based pharmaceutical company, has become a key partner of the KM Bright Spark Awards which are held at their Sandwich home.

Robert Crook, Senior Director for Chemical Research and Development at Pfizer, said: “It’s a sheer delight to be involved with the Bright Spark Awards. We are looking for young people to develop fantastic ideas which engage their cross-curriculum skills such as science, mathematics and ICT.”

He added: “I’m really excited to see what projects our entrants develop, and I’m particularly excited by the idea that perhaps some students will come up with an idea that could improve health care and medicine.”

Projects submitted by pupils will be judged across three core categories: Innovation, Investigation and Invention. They will face fellow students for a place to promote their work to a band of judges at a Dragon’s Den style celebration event staged at Discovery Park. The winning participants will receive a top prize of £500 cash.

A number of contest submissions have already been received including the Whitefrairs Water Clock project created by Year 12 students at Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys.

Lisa Craig, events manager at the KM Charity Team which organises the awards, said: “Pfizer are a statement of scientific prowess in the county and indeed the world. We are thrilled to have their support for the Bright Spark Awards which are designed to engage young people with the subject and the infinite possibilities it possesses.”

Pfizer will serve as part of the judging panel at the grand final event alongside fellow key partners Golding Homes, University of Kent and Hectic Lifestyles.

To submit your Bright Sparks nomination, visit www.kmcharityteam.co.uk/brightspark

All nominations must be received by noon on Friday, June 3.