J3 explore science and space at the Oxford Science Centre

Yesterday, our J3 pupils had an exciting day of science-filled fun at the Oxford Science Centre as part of their Space topic.

The day started with Data Logger Discovery workshop, which saw the pupils taking on the role of real scientists as they investigated temperature, light and sound using digital data loggers. The staff introduced the data loggers and demonstrated how to use them to record results on their tablets. Working in pairs, the pupils then designed their own experiment to test which set of sunglasses was the most efficient. The room was full of excitement as they collaborated, shared ideas and analysed their results.

After the workshop and a short snack break, the pupils spent an hour in the hands-on Exploration Zone, which was a highlight of the day for many. The most popular stalls included the infrared camera, scarf-shooting wind tunnels, and the big fan for testing parachutes. Pupils explored each activity with plenty of laughter and excitement.

After the trip, one pupil shared: “The best thing I liked about the trip was when we were playing all the fun games. We’d have these tubes filled with air that would push these plastic hollow balls around in it. And sometimes they get stuck in these little things like plastic boxes. And we’d send handkerchiefs to knock them out.”

They ended the day with a spectacular planetarium show, which took place inside an inflatable dome where the night sky and views of the solar system were projected all around them. It was a wonderful way to round off the visit.

Charles (J3) said: “I really enjoyed the cog machine where you had to link the cogs to make the two characters dance, the clock to move and the bells to ring.”

Many thanks to the Junior School team for organising such a fun educational day for our pupils!