Year 10 attend GCSE Science LIVE
This week, our Year 10 students enjoyed a packed and thought-provoking day at GCSE Science LIVE, hearing from some of the UK’s leading scientists and science communicators.
The day began with Jim Al-Khalili, who widened students’ understanding of the potential of time travel, to the future or the past, and explored whether it might ever be possible.
Students were then inspired by Kate Lancaster, who spoke about the development of plasma fusion technology and its potential as a future energy source. Dr Lancaster, who researches at the University of York’s School of Physics, encouraged students to consider where studying science could take them next.
The feature lecture was delivered by Robert Winston, who gave an in-depth look at his pioneering work in IVF. He explained how pre-implantation techniques are used to screen embryos for genetic diseases such as cystic fibrosis, delivering the science with his characteristic humour and charisma, something our students particularly enjoyed.
In the afternoon, Gilly Forrester explored the science behind stress. She demonstrated how remote thermal imaging, including nose cooling, can help scientists better understand stress responses, with potential applications for improving mental health interventions for both gorillas and humans.
The finale introduced students to nanostructure fabrication, including a demonstration of how materials can be engineered to repel water; technology already used in clothing. Tim Gabriel also spoke about routes into science careers, highlighting apprenticeship opportunities with chemical companies and showing students that there are multiple pathways into the field.
Throughout the day, Stewart Chenery provided helpful advice on exam preparation, ensuring students could connect what they were hearing to their own GCSE studies.
The day proved to be a fascinating and valuable experience. The students behaved impeccably and were a credit to our school.
