An all-expenses-paid trip to New York is the top prize in the 1996 Duracell Science and Technology UK Schools Competition. Co-organised with the Association for Science Education, it challenges students aged 14-16 to design an original battery-powered device. Winning devices last year included an electronic spirit level, a prototype of an unattended flower watering system, and a jigsaw puzzle for the blind. There are five first prizes of Pounds 1,000 for the school and Pounds 250 for the student or team of up to three students. Closing date for written entries: March 15. Entry forms from competition helpline: 0171 240 5341.