Rockstar Young Geologists’ Competition – Themes from last year’s competition
Every Rockstar entry tells a story. We can’t wait to hear yours.
Perhaps you joined us on a Rockwatch field trip and discovered your very first fossil. Maybe a family holiday took you somewhere with incredible cliffs, caves or volcanoes. Perhaps you visited a museum and came home full of questions, or learned something fascinating at school that made you want to find out more.
It could have been a film, a book, a conversation with a teacher, grandparent or friend, or simply an unusual rock you found while out for a walk.
Sometimes the smallest moment can open the door to an amazing journey of discovery.
That’s exactly what the Rockstars Young Geologists’ Competition is all about.
Every year we’re amazed by the subjects that inspire young geologists. Some entrants become fascinated by dinosaurs, while others explore crystals, volcanoes, gemstones, fossils, earthquakes, meteorites, minerals, caves, rivers or mountains. Others discover how geology helps us understand climate change, renewable energy or how we can better care for our planet.
There isn’t a set topic or theme for the competition. We celebrate all things geology, so you can explore whatever captures your imagination.
Last year’s overall winner, Ember, created an extraordinary collection of models and an accompanying booklet celebrating her geological heroine, Mary Anning, and the discoveries that changed the way we understand prehistoric life. Her project began with curiosity and grew into something truly remarkable.
Every Rockstar entry has its own story.
We love discovering what inspired you, how you investigated your chosen subject, and the imaginative ways you bring your ideas to life. Whether you create a model, a scrapbook, a video, a podcast, artwork, a collection or something completely original, we’re always blown away by your creativity.
What makes the competition so special isn’t simply the finished project. It’s seeing your curiosity, enthusiasm and determination shine through every entry. Time and again, you show us just how passionate young people are about understanding our incredible planet.
Many entries even become family adventures, with parents, grandparents, brothers, sisters and friends joining in the fun. Researching, building and creating together is all part of the experience.
The Rockstars Competition is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the Rockwatch year. It is a genuine privilege to see every single entry that arrives, and each one reminds us just how exciting Earth science can be.
The competition is free to enter, open to everyone under 18, and you don’t need to be a Rockwatch member to take part.
You have the whole summer holidays to investigate, create and let your imagination run wild before sending us your masterpiece by 31 August 2026, together with your completed entry form.
There are plenty of ideas, resources and inspiration to help you get started, including some fantastic entries from previous years – check out the Rockstars Competition pages to find out more.
We can’t wait to discover what has inspired you this summer.
Where will your curiosity take you?
