Setting imaginations on fire at Lynn school

Bringing Science to life for pupils as part of a University of East Anglia outreach programme

Bubbles, rockets, and flames inspired and entertained students at Springwood High School.  The Chemistry Kitchen event, led by Professor Stephen Ashworth, included a number of experiments which captured the imagination of the children.

“I really enjoyed the fire element,” says Mila Perrin, “It made the show different to others that I have seen. The flame was really big.”

Head of Year 7 Victoria Mann adds, “The 280 students in our Year 7 cohort took part in the first session of the day and were inspired by demonstrations including air-powered rockets, electricity, flames, and bubbles, with the air rockets and fire components being particularly popular.

“Two more sessions involved local primary schools, all of whom left feeling excited and amazed by the power of science.”

Coordinated by Springwood Head of Science Lucy Dawson and Chemistry Lead Annabel Owen, the event's become a regular fixture at the school.

“It offers students the opportunity to see science at work in a way they might not normally do in a classroom,” continues Mrs Mann, “It both inspires, enriches, and gives insight into careers in science beyond the curriculum."

All images Ian Burt