Einstein = masses of curiosity²

As part of National Science week, the Science department and 160 intrepid year 7 students headed to the Science Observatory at Herstmonceux.  The students get to experience hands-on activities and team challenges. This year the theme was Einstein 100, Einstein = masses of curiosity², to recognise the 100 year anniversary of his General Theory of Relativity being verified using photographs of a total solar eclipse taken through one of the telescopes at Herstmonceux!

The students built bridges and towers and competed individually to see who could hold their finger on a tens machine as the voltage was increased! As well as investigating light and magnetic challenges, the students had the opportunity to carry out two team challenges. Group 4 had the best time and constructed and deconstructed their bridge in 7 minutes and 22 seconds.  Group 3 managed to build the highest tower at 2.525m.  Congratulations go to the overall winners, group 1 with Miss Swyny.

It was wonderful to see all the students get involved in the experiments and also the science show where we were entertained by the Scientists at the centre who encouraged audience participation.  We now know why a black hole can bend light!  The astronaut food was once again a popular item purchased in the shop.  The water area was enjoyed by all despite the cold wind and the outdoor area provided some entertaining moments, especially when the students tried to balance on the giant balance board.

Mrs Cardwell

“My time at Herstmonceux was amazing, it was by far the best trip I have ever had at this school.  I loved that the friendly staff were always really exciting and what they said was very interesting to listen to.  The discovery park was fantastic, when I looked at a certain angle I could see the famous scientist, Albert Einstein.  The water activities were amazing as our group succeeded in making an entire water circuit.  We had a lot of fun and worked fantastically as a group. We also had to build a tower of blocks and a wooden bridge with plastic bolts and wooden planks.  The bridge building was spectacular as our group had to assemble the bridge then take it apart in reverse order.  Overall, the trip was amazing and I learnt so much from the interactive corridor.”   Luke B 7MI1

“I really enjoyed the Herstmonceux trip because it was really fun and interesting.  There were team activities that were enjoyable for we were able to work together.  The exhibitions were my favourite.  There were all sorts of things to do with electricity, colours and light.  The discovery park was active and fun too.”   Tessa C 7MI1

“I think the Herstmonceux trip was great!  I had an amazing time with all of my friends and my teacher.  My favourite part was when we were told to make a bridge and we were timed.  I loved working as a team to build the bridge.  I also really enjoyed the corridor where they had really cool contraptions such as 3D pictures.  In the end my team won the competition!”

Eva D 7MI1