On Wednesday, April 1st, 2026, seven students from the 4th grade class at Sainte-Hélène College in Gramat experienced an emotionally charged day by participating in the academic final of the C.Génial scientific contest, held at the Paul-Sabatier University in Toulouse. They won the prize from the Academy of Sciences in Toulouse and will be presenting their project to the academicians on May 27th.
The national competition challenges students to become real researchers by starting with a concrete issue. The objectives include identifying a technical daily problem, conducting a complete scientific process, and designing an innovative solution in collaboration with a company or scientific organization.
Supported by their mathematics teacher Aurélien Detey and their SVT/physics chemistry teacher Claire Denis, the students from Sainte-Hélène College tackled a current question: how to maintain cool and comfortable classrooms in hot weather. With the guidance of an engineer and two communication apprentices from CEA, the students formulated hypotheses, conducted observations, visited CEA facilities, and experimented in class.
After numerous trials and adjustments, three technical solutions were developed: a fan-mister, a naturally fireproof shading panel made from aluminum and sheep wool, and an automated window opening and closing system, fine-tuned with the help of a student’s parent.
In Toulouse, the young scientists presented their work to various juries comprised of personalities from the scientific, academic, and institutional world. The students impressively explained their process and confidently answered scientific questions.
Sainte-Hélène College students triumphantly won the Academy of Sciences prize in Toulouse, chosen by the participating teams among twelve finalist projects.
This recognition will allow them to showcase their inventions to academicians on Wednesday, May 27th, marking another rewarding step for these dedicated students. This collective success highlights the importance of scientific projects at Sainte-Hélène College, enabling students to learn differently, develop critical thinking, creativity, and a passion for science. The school congratulates the students for their commitment and expresses sincere gratitude to CEA of Gramat for their technical and financial support throughout the project.
R.P. and E.C.
