Science - Chemistry Show, May 2019

Inviting local primary school pupils to the School’s annual Science Week show is a long tradition at Walthamstow Hall. Most recently, on 17 May 2019, 95 pupils from St John’s Primary and Lady Boswell’s Primary School came to Walthamstow Hall’s Ship Theatre to watch a Chemistry show by Dr Andrew Szydlo.

 “It’s not a magic show, it’s a chemistry show!” Dr Szydlo shouted, as he set off chemical reactions to make liquids change colours, ping pong balls blast out of tubes and a lid explode off a paint pot – nearly taking out one of the theatre’s lights. Dr Andrew kept up a fascinating running commentary of everything he demonstrated, giving historical context to every scientific fact. He used hydrochloric acid and the alkali sodium hydroxide to take us through the colour sequence of a liquid. He explained how ancient peoples distilled the “black smelly water” that is oil, while demonstrating the chemistry of a combustion engine. Fire, air and high explosives were his playthings in a thrilling show of scientific success.

Aims

To introduce younger pupils to Science, demontsrating its wonders and relevance to the world around us.

Background

Science shows form a central part of Walthamstow Hall's Science Week and are greatly enjoyed by pupils. It was a natural progression to extend a free invitation to pupils at neighjbouring primary schools too.

Resources

The Science shows take place in Walthamstow Hall's Theatre. The shows are organised by the Walthamstow Hall Science Department who also attend. The shows are fully funded by Walthamstow Hall.

Impact

The Science Shows take place annually.

Pupil Involvement

Walthamstow Hall pupils from Years 6, 7, 8 and 9 also attend the Science shows.

Frequency

Inviting neighbouring primary schools to Science Shopws is a long established tradition at Walthamstow Hall and will continue each year.