The Other Half

Science Communication Club For students who want to explore and share their enthusiasm for science by learning skills to inform, inspire and raise awareness of science-related topics. Opportunities range from science busking and being involved in the ATOM Festival of Science and Technology, to science journalism and developing a publication to celebrate science at Abingdon, as well as regular talks and workshops from inspiring science communication professionals. Science Factor If you expect excitement, explosions and sound-byte science then these are not the clubs for you! However, if you want to learn real research skills; develop deeper understanding and see what it really takes to be a research scientist, then join Science Factor. Research projects may be part of external programmes organised through the Abingdon Science Partnership and the Institute for Research in Schools, or they may be based on your own, individual ideas and interests. Examples of ongoing projects include the CERN@School energy to matter photonics project in physics; ‘Ionic Liquids’ in chemistry and ‘Genome Decoders’ in biology, but if you have your own ideas, discuss them with us and we’ll try to help. Science Partnerships There are many opportunities to volunteer as a Science Ambassador for the Abingdon Science Partnership, including primary school science workshops; Science Oxford Saturday Science Clubs; Scout and Guide Science Badge evenings and the Abingdon ATOM Festival of Science and Technology. Virtual Reality We have the HTC Vive Pro Virtual Reality available for boys to use. In the First Half of Michaelmas term we encourage boys to try the kit and experience VR. Boys can then contribute to the future direction of our study of this important technology at school. Wildlife Club Members of the wildlife club will take part in outdoor conservation projects for OPAL, RSPB and other organisations. Indoor meetings include presentations and discussions about conservation and wildlife-related topics. Whilst learning about wildlife and habitats, students will have the opportunity to practise their creative writing, public speaking and GIS skills. Young Scientists Journal This is an opportunity for pupils from any year to learn some science writing skills and to pursue a writing project on a topic of their own choice. Abingdon Science Partnership is affiliated to the Young Scientists Journal, which gives the opportunity for finished articles to be published online and possibly in the hard copy edition. SCIENCE AND COMPUTING 28