Motivation

Research funded by the Institute of Physics (2007) indicated that many pupils are uncertain about which aspects of the science curriculum are physics and would struggle to define the topic even after completion of their GCSEs. Further, there is a perception, an incorrect one, that there are no jobs in physics, that it is boring/difficult, only for geeks/nerds and that it is irrelevant to their lives.

To address this the Physics Outreach Group was set up to develop and deliver high quality outreach to school pupils (and others) with a focus on how scientific concepts are applied in the real world. Students from the Physics Outreach Group deliver talks and workshops in pairs to highlight the collaborative nature of science. This shows the multitude of different personalities, tastes and styles of those who choose to study and work in science, and so is more likely the pupils will be able to identify with at least one of the presenters as role models.

 

We stimulate discussion about new technologies and how these might save or improve lives to show that science is challenging & important. This leads to an exploration of where science is used in various careers and how they, individually, can make a difference in the future by their choice of a science career. The large quantity and variety of high tech jobs which will come online in the UK by the time current pupils graduate are emphasised throughout our workshops to raise expectations by showing that there is something for everyone.

We source good quality props, and use these in demonstrations and interaction to show that science is stimulating & fun. By linking to the National Curriculum and using everyday items (such as our microwave chocolate activity) we emphasise that science is all around in every part of their lives and create a direct link with what they study in school.