On Monday 9th October, students in Years 7 and 8 were joined by two of our Sixth Form academic scholars on a trip to New Scientist Live at the Excel centre in London. This event was advertised as ‘the world’s greatest festival of ideas and discoveries’, and it certainly was an amazing STEM event. Students enjoyed watching ‘The Human Guinea Pig Show’ with Tom Warrendar from Medical Mavericks. He introduced them to some of the many interesting but less well-known careers available in the world of Healthcare Science: in fact, Healthcare Scientists perform 85% of all the diagnostic tests in a hospital. As part of his presentation, he performed some live medical tests on stage using an ultrasound and a vein visualisation scanner.
“My favourite part was listening to the talks and doing activities and learning so much about my body. I would love to go again.”
– Rumaysa, Year 8
One of the most popular shows they saw was ‘Rude Science’, with the TV presenter Stefan Gates. In this interactive show, the audience learnt interesting facts in a high energy, engaging, laughter-filled hour.
“My favourite part was Rude Science because it made me laugh, and I will definitely come back to see more.” – Lola, Year 7
“My favourite part of the day was Rude Science and all the exhibitions. I would go again because I really enjoyed it, and it was very interacting and interesting.”
– Chloe, Year 8
Audience participation is encouraged at many of the sessions, and Miranda (Year 8) got involved in another show when she was chosen to be part of it on stage.
Ruk and Keira, our Sixth Form scholars, were thrilled to have the opportunity to chat to Dr Anne-Marie Imafidon MBE, the CEO of Stemnettes, an award-winning social initiative dedicated to inspiring and promoting the next generation of young women in the STEM sectors, and the temporary Arithmetician on Channel 4’s Countdown. They were inspired by her story and what she has achieved, saying it was one of the highlights of their day.
The day was packed full of interactive experiences, career information and inspiration. Many of the students were challenged when they tried keyhole surgery for themselves
at the Hospital of the Future stand and were intrigued by the 3D printed body parts.
“I really enjoyed the day, especially when we got to go round all the stands.” – Bethany, Year 8
“I loved all the different exhibitions and activities, and it is definitely something I would do again.” – Genevieve, Year 7
Overall, the trip was successful and enjoyed by all in attendance.
