'Chemistry Spectacular' for partner schools

The Chemistry department of Cheltenham College hosts an annual lecture where students have the opportunity to witness chemical demonstrations on a scale that they would never normally see. The emphasis is very much on demonstrating spectacular chemistry. 

Students from All Saints and St John’s visited College and directly benefitted from the experience of seeing relevant and familiar chemistry on a grand scale. The event also proves very useful for visiting staff as ideas from the lecture were taken back to All Saints for application in the classroom.

Aims

The Aims:

• active engagement with local schools (state primary and independent)
• exposure to a range of demonstration chemistry not normally see
• drive aspiration and a love of science amongst our community
• provide science specific professional development to visiting teachers and associated staff

Background

College Head of Chemistry identified the opportunity (with future workshops planned) as part of our partnership involvement with the two schools. 

Impact

Past lectures have focused on the Periodic Table, redox and structure and bonding which are three central pillars of KS2, KS3, CE, GCSE, IGCSE and A Level Chemistry.

Pupil Involvement

The event will be fully interactive with members of the audience helping perform experiments, thereby helping students and teachers get a hands on feel for the Science.

Frequency

College plans to host more regular events throughout the academic year.