It’s the final countdown to the KM Bright Spark Awards with organisers calling for entries before this Friday’s deadline.

The awards have been devised by the KM Charity Team to offer schools a fun way to spark pupils’ interest in STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering and maths).

Projects involving groups of pupils using one or more STEM skills are eligible for entry until the deadline of noon on June 5. Submissions received after this time will not be counted.

Top young scientists, engineers and mathematicians will have the chance to pitch their projects at an exciting dragons’ den style final in a bid to win trophies and prizes. The overall winners will receive £500.

Kimberley Anderson, corporate relations manager at Discovery Park, said: “We are delighted to be able to support the awards event as it’s a fun and engaging way to encourage young people to take an interest in STEM subjects and it’s also extremely valuable to the schools who participate.

“We hope that the students come away with the confidence and skills they need to pursue a career in science.”

Projects can be nominated by pupils, parents, teachers or other members of school staff by completing the form at this link.

Entrants should include a photo of the group in action with their creation and can optionally include a link to a video detailing their project.

Simon Dolby from the KM Charity Team said: "The KM Bright Spark Awards offer more incentive to pupils to throw themselves into their science projects.

“Finalists will get a real thrill from presenting their work to the dragons - and even more so if they win a prize.”

Organisations backing the awards include the science faculty at the University of Kent, Betteridge & Milsom Ltd, Integrated Technologies Ltd, Kent and Medway STEM, and Hectic Lifestyles.

• To find out more about becoming a dragon at the event contact Simon Dolby on 07989 164 752 or at sdolby@thekmgroup.co.uk.