Step into the shoes of a detective! In this playful workshop, children will learn fingerprinting techniques, practice investigative interviewing, and collect vital evidence to crack the case of the missing cake. Along the way, we’ll piece together a skeleton, test our teamwork, and bring the story to life with entertaining role play and some very suspicious characters.

Location/Environment:

School hall, classroom, community centre, or outdoor space with tables available

What’s included:

Fingerprinting kits, evidence bags, role play props, skeleton model/activity resources

What will we do?:

• Learn and practice fingerprinting techniques
• Collect and examine evidence to solve the mystery
• Conduct simple investigative interviews
• Build a skeleton as part of the case clues
• Take part in role play with fun suspect characters (adults encouraged to role-play these!)

Learning Outcomes/Benefits:

• Develops problem-solving and critical thinking skills
• Encourages teamwork and communication
• Builds confidence through role play
• Introduces basic forensic science in a fun, age-appropriate way

Practical Requirements:

• Indoor or outdoor space with tables/chairs
• Access to handwashing or wipes (for fingerprinting ink)
• Weather-appropriate clothing if outdoors

Adaptability:

• Suitable for ages 4+
• Can be tailored for EYFS, KS1, KS2, Scouts/Guides, or family groups
• Also available as a fun, hands-on party mystery 'who-dun-it'!

Curriculum Links:

• Science (materials, human body, scientific enquiry)
• English (storytelling, role play, questioning)
• PSHE (teamwork, problem-solving, communication)

(Recommended adult to child ratios - 1:6 for 4-8 year olds and 1:8 for 9-12 year olds, with at least two adults present at all times.)