Each school will be represented by a team of four 11-13 year olds, who will take part in a competitive, hands-on, practical activity, entitled ‘There’s been a Murder!”, in which they will use their analytical chemistry skills.  During the day they will compete in practical activity entitled ‘University Challenge’ in which they will be asked to analyse materials and  control how fast a reaction takes place.

The day will end with a prize-giving event at which all participants will be given prizes and participation certificates, and the winning teams awarded prizes for their schools.

The Salters' Festivals of Chemistry are an initiative of The Salters' Institute, whose aim is to promote the appreciation of chemistry and related sciences among the young. The Festival at the University is one of a series of fifty-three Festivals taking place at universities throughout the UK and the Republic of Ireland between March and June 2011.

The event is in partnership with the Royal Society of Chemistry.