The evolution of the Daffodil DNA Project: from a single classroom project to high quality citizen science across the country

The Daffodil DNA Project is an innovative educational initiative aimed at investigating the impact of sustained authentic project work on post-16 biology education. The project focuses on engaging students in collaborative inquiry and developing their understanding of biology concepts through the study of daffodil chloroplast genomics. This article provides an overview of the project's background, methods, and initial outcomes. Preliminary outcomes of the project have demonstrated its scientific impact, resulting in the generation of 9 new draft daffodil chloroplast genomes from this citizen science project. Furthermore, participating schools showcased their findings at the Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition, enhancing public engagement with the project. Initial feedback from students indicates the transformative nature of the project, with one student describing the experience as "life changing." The success of the Daffodil DNA Project can be attributed to effective collaboration between the University of Dundee, the James Hutton Institute, schools, and STEM partners. Regular communication and knowledge sharing among participants have contributed to the project's achievements and the development of a shared identity as scientists. Overall, the Daffodil DNA Project presents a promising model for inquiry-based learning in biology education, emphasising the importance of authentic scientific investigation and collaboration. Future research will delve into the educational benefits of this approach and its potential applicability in diverse classroom settings.