A Brain Bee is an educational neuroscience competition aimed to inspire children to learn about the brain and pursue a career in STEM. It is open to secondary school students in the UK from grades 9 through 13. It has been running in the UK since 2015. In 2018, two rounds of the competition were set up: a regional and a national competition.
FAQ
What exactly is a ‘Brain Bee’?
Who can participate?
Any student in grades 9-13 (England) or S2-S6 (Scotland) with UK citizenship may participate.
When is the registration deadline?
February each year.
What is the format of the Brain Bee?
The British Brian Bee is divided into two rounds: regional and national. In the regional competition, students have to complete only two challenges: a written exam and an anatomy & histology practical. The top 1 to 3 (depending on scores) candidates from the first round will go on to the second round of the competition which will consist of Jeopardy-style Q&A, a written exam, a practical anatomy challenge and a patient diagnosis test. The winner of this competition will be eligible to participate in the International Brain Bee.
Where is the closest Brain Bee Hub to my home?
To find the closest hub, go to Find your hub.
How do I register?
Registration form can be found here. Teachers only can register their schools and students. No student is allowed to register himself/herself. There is no limit to the number of participants from each school.
How much does it cost?
The competitions are free, but any expenses associated with attending this event are not covered.
I haven’t done any neuroscience at school, will that be an issue?
Whether you have previously studied neuroscience or not does not affect your participation in the annual Brain Bee event. All examinable material can be accessed from our webpage all year round!
How can I prepare for the Brain Bee?
See here for a comprehensive list of study resources.
Why should I participate?
By participating, secondary school students learn about the brain and its vital function in our lives. They gain an appreciation for neuroscience that might one day lead them to become neurologists or neuroscientists to treat and conquer the very diseases covered in the Brain Bee. Participation could also be included on job and university applications (eg. UCAS) and each participant will receive a certificate for their efforts.
What can I win?
For a comprehensive list of the prizes available see here.
When and where will the National British Brain Bee be held?
It will take place annually in June. More information will be released soon.
What is the date for the next Brain Bee competition?
For more details go to ‘Find your hub‘.
I have a disability, can I still attend?
Yes, you are more than welcome to attend, though we need to know in advance what your disability is, and what your requirements are. This is so we can accommodate your needs and make sure you are not disadvantaged in any way. Please contact: info@brainbee-uk.com.
Are the brain tissues dangerous/a threat to us?
We have policies and go through great care to ensure that all tissues are clean and safe. Under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 we rigorously and demonstrably apply the 3Rs principles (Replacement, Reduction and Refinement).
Will I receive a certificate even if I don’t win?
All participants receive an accredited certificate of participation, which will look great of your CV and UCAS application!
Do you pay for the winner’s trip to the International Brain Bee Competition?
We aim to fund the winner of the Brittish Brain Bee’s travel expenses to the International Brain Bee competition but unfortunately cannot guarantee it. It is dependent on our financial capabilities.
