Monmouth School Science Department continues with its exciting venture to promote science in Wales and to stimulate pupils to actively consider a career in research based science.  The initiative involves sixth form pupils from both of the Monmouth Schools working with pupils from local comprehensives on practical science activities, using the facilities and expertise of the Haberdashers’ Schools. The aim is to develop many of the practical skills one would expect of second year undergraduates studying for science degrees.  There is also an exciting additional extended project where students are building two radio telescopes that they will use to investigate the ionosphere.

The scheme is now in its fourth year and 60 pupils from six local schools are taking part in a range of practical science tasks.  The aim is to encourage them to acquire advanced scientific skills and to enhance their understanding of the importance of science in the modern world.  Students undertake weekly practical activities in each of the three sciences ranging from calculating Planck's Constant to synthesising paracetamol and using the polymerase chain reaction to amplify their own DNA.  On three occasions during the year, they visit Cardiff University and undertake a range of exercises typical of those given to undergraduates. The University generously allow them to use valuable equipment and several senior staff give up their time to work with them. A wide range of departments,  including Biosciences, Engineering, Chemistry, Pharmacy, Optometry and the Heath Hospital, provide opportunities for visits

The scheme also welcomes outside providers at various point during the course.  Members of Cassidian (formerly EADS) who are at the forefront of research and development in defence and security systems run three sessions during the year.  During these afternoons, students embark upon an engineering based project where they design, build and attempt to sell a defence style 'Lego' vehicle.  Students are introduced to the concept of Operational Research and its application in the wider world in sessions organised by Professor Paul Harper of Cardiff University.

Conference

On Wednesday 12th October 2011, Monmouth Science Initiative hosted a conference in the Blake Theatre.  We were fortunate to welcome four eminent scientists who spoke to over 200 sixth form pupils from all of the partner schools.  The afternoon started with a pyrotechnicsy by Dr Danks and Dr Clarke where students were treated to a fantastic display including exploding hydrogen balloons, gunpowder, dry ice and liquid nitrogen.  Dr Nick Kent from Cardiff University’s Bioscience Department, who researches gene technology , talked about DNA , spaghetti and meatballs and  used the analogy to explain how DNA is able to control the cell in a democratic way.

Dr Chris North is an astronomer with the Herschel Space observatory and is passionate about all things astronomical.  Chris’ research focuses primarily on Cosmic Microwave Background experiments and he talked about the Herschel and Planck telescopes.  Dean Burnett researches into the processes of memory at Cardiff University and uses his knowledge of the mind in his stand up comedy routine.  Dean introduced students to the Stroop effect, optical illusions and other interesting brain feats.  Rhys Phillips works as a Research Engineer in the Lightning, Electrostatics and EMH group within EADS Innovation Works.  Rhys talked to students about how he is involved in the development of innovative methods to optimise lightning strike protection on the new type of lighter, carbon fibre composite aircraft.  The afternoon was a huge success and plans are already being put in place for next year’s conference.

MSI also has an outreach section where the DNA practical investigations can be taken to schools within a reasonable travelling distance of Monmouth.  This scheme has been set up so that as many sixth form pupils as possible are able to access these high level techniques and handle equipment that they would not normally have access to.  The first outreach programme took place in July 2011 at St Alban’s Pontypool and was a huge success.

The organisers of the scheme are always pleased to hear from any interested individuals and organisations that may be able to support the venture.  Please contact Dr A. Francis and Miss E.K. Barson c/o Monmouth School or via the Monmouth Science Initiative website (www.monmouth-science.co.uk)