Science Live

This week, 12 Able, Gifted and Talented scientists in Year 10 and 11 attended “Science Live” at the New Theatre in Oxford.  It was a fantastic opportunity for the girls to hear from five of the UK’s top scientists speaking about their area of specialism.

Speakers included Professor Mark Miodownik, an engineer and materials scientist who spoke about materials for the future in “Stuff Matters”; Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock, who spoke on the wonders of space and the telescopes of the future; Professor Lord Robert Winston, who talked about fertility and genetic modification; Professor Andrea Sella, an inorganic chemist, who delivered “How the zebra got its stripes” and Professor Steve Jones on “Nature, nurture or neither?”

Each talk lasted 30 minutes and there were also two 15 minute presentations from an experienced science examiner, Stewart Chenery, who gave tips on examination technique and understanding of command words.

Science teacher, Mrs Ingrams said “This was a great experience for the girls and they were thoroughly inspired by each and every speaker. After each one they commented on how good the lecture had been and they were clearly impressed with the enthusiastic and often humorous delivery that brought the subject matter to life.”

Ella H (Year 11) said “I had a lovely time and found the lectures very interesting, they have expanded my knowledge in the subjects and given me a greater understanding.”

Mia S (Year 11) said “We really enjoyed our day at ‘Science Live’, especially the interesting professors we heard from. I particularly enjoyed listening to Professor Andrea Sella due to his enthusiasm and ability to make funny metaphors. The chemistry he discussed was intellectual but he described it at a level in which we could understand. We also found the Chief Examiner’s tips useful looking ahead to our exams in the summer. “

Phoebe R (Year 10) said “The science trip to Oxford's GCSE science live has made me seriously consider a career in science. My favourite speaker was Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock an astronomer speaking about “tripping the light fantastic”. I was also inspired by Professor Lord Robert Winston a biologist who was the pioneer of IVF treatment. Dr Winston expressed his views on why he thinks more girls should have science based careers especially in medicine which I thought was very motivating.”

Ruby B (Year 11) said “For me, Dr. Maggie Aderin-Pocock rivalled the other scientists - I felt truly gifted to have been given the opportunity to hear her speak. She spoke with a rare, absolute enthusiasm which was inspiring. Although I already found the night sky interesting, her words have developed a greater love for it and so I am extremely grateful to have been able to go on the trip.”