Harrodian's Science Department organised a series of activities linked to World Science Day on Monday 10th November for several year groups, bringing an added focus to science this autumn.
On Monday 10th November, World Science Day, our Lower Prep pupils were greeted by the sight of what appeared to be a mysterious silver spaceship sitting in the centre of the Harrodian Marquee. Closer inspection revealed that the object was actually an inflatable viewing room with a special projector that transformed it into a mini planetarium with an interior that, like Dr Who's Tardis, felt much bigger inside than out. One by one, each of our Lower Prep classes was treated to a technicolour tour of the solar system complete with close ups of the planets and the sun.
The visit of the Wonderdome was organised by Head of Lower Prep Science Sophia Barker. It made for an electrifying introduction to astronomy for our 9s (Year 5) pupils and an experience which, as the excited reactions of pupils emerging from the dome told you, they are unlikely to forget in a hurry. Every child seemed to have a new and exciting fact to reveal about the wonders of the solar system. Did you know that the Sun is just a little star (by universal standards!) or that the atmospheric pressure on Venus would instantly crush you to death? 'What's really striking about the session is how much knowledge they retained,' says Head of Year for the 9s Jenny Eade (below, with a 9s class). 'It's such a vivid and memorable way to learn about astronomy.'
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In the weeks leading up to World Science Day our Senior Harrodian pupils have also enjoyed their own opportunities to get some new and exciting perspectives on Science.
A Surgeon’s Perspective: Ms Melanie Jenkins visits the Senior School
Our Seniors were treated to a memorable and thought-provoking assembly delivered by thoracic surgeon Ms Melanie Jenkins, who visited Harrodian to share insights into her remarkable career in Medicine and Surgery.
Tying her talk to this year’s World Science Day theme of Science for Peace and Development, Ms Jenkins explored the altruistic side of her work. She spoke about providing medical aid in regions affected by conflict, disaster and famine, describing both the challenges and humanitarian importance of delivering surgical care in crisis settings.
The assembly also served as a powerful reminder of the importance of lung health. Ms Jenkins explained the damaging effects of smoking, marijuana use and, particularly relevant to young people, vaping, including the formation of dangerous balloon-like pockets of air on the lungs. Pupils were shown some powerful images (with fair warning!), giving her message extra impact.
Science Live Event: Seniors trip to the Excel Centre
Before half-term, our 13s (Year 9) and 15s (Year 11) visited the Science Live 2025 event at the ExCeL Centre, where they spent the day exploring a wide range of hands-on exhibits, interactive challenges and live demonstrations designed to bring scientific concepts to life. Pupils had the chance to speak to scientists, try out experiments linked to real-world research and discover emerging innovations across physics, biology and engineering.
A highlight for many were the keynote talks delivered by leading science communicators. 15s pupil Olivia comments on the range and quality of these sessions, explaining how she particularly enjoyed talks on themes as varied as "whether fantasy fiction follows the laws of physics" and "the power and promise of gene editing". “Each talk was equally immersive and humorous yet informative,” she said. Olivia described the whole event as “an exciting opportunity to explore and discover new interests evolving around science,” a feeling shared by pupils across both year groups who attended.