Last Friday a select group of Year 11 and Sixth form scientists were given the opportunity to spend a day at Wellington College in Crowthorne, Berkshire, where they were able to participate in various scientific practicals and lectures. The science facilities were impressive and sessions were extremely interesting. Students were able to perform dissections on frog specimens, exploring the unique body structure of amphibians, and how they differ from our own. Another session allowed students to investigate the use of electrical signals in ECG scanners (Electrocardiographs), as well as how unexpected shocks and surprises can affect our heart rate (and see how immediate an effect). The chemistry sessions were some of the most interesting parts of the day, with students producing their own ethanoic ester of salicylic acid – more commonly known as Aspirin- attempting to achieve the highest level of purity possible; as well as extracting the caffeine from coffee. A small group of Year 12 mathematicians worked with students in the Wellington maths department. At the end of the day, students were given three TED-style talks: thought-provoking lectures on some fascinating scientific fields of research, such as social evolution, the reason why living underwater is an impossibility, and the three dimensional growth of stem cells. On a side note, many students greatly enjoyed walking in the grounds, meeting the staff; and the range of lunches available! At the end of the day, students reflected that the experience had been very engaging, providing them with a stimulating new outlook on science and its applications in everyday life.
Jed Young, March 2016
