Godolphin School students create life-sized giant squid

The squid, which took a lot of preparation to make, is on display in the school's main hall, as part of its Science Week.

After extensive brainstorming sessions, Godolphin’s Exhibition Club members decided on a captivating 'Deep Sea' theme with a life-sized giant squid taking centre stage as part of Godolphin's Science Week. Last year, the school created a replica of the International Space Station.

READ MORE: Godolphin students build replica model of International Space Station

The colossal squid exhibit spans 14m in length and was made with materials gathered by pupils and staff over the summer.

Godolphin students build life-sized giant squid (Image: Godolphin School)

Godolphin's giant squid is comprised of many donated materials such as cardboard, newspaper, and milk bottle tops.

The internal structure is made entirely from recycled cardboard and extends 3m in length. It required meticulous efforts to balance strength and weight.

Sheets of papier-mâché were crafted and reinforced each week to provide a stable outer layer for the squid’s form.

Stabilising fins, designed to emulate fluid motion, were anchored in place by sturdy wooden struts and counterbalanced to bolster structural integrity.

One of the greatest challenges was the creation of the squid’s arms. A creative solution was devised; sewing lengths of fabric into compact cubes, which were then filled with polystyrene bean bag balls and reinforced with wire, allowing them to be suspended in the grandeur of Godolphin’s Main Hall.

Dr Clinton Thrower, head of science at Godolphin, said: "This project is a testament to the tireless dedication of the Exhibition Club, transforming the collective vision of staff and students to become a reality."