Daniella O, a Year 13 physicist, took part in an outreach programme, Representing Physics. The event saw 32 students of Black heritage engage in a 3-day programme, packed with activities and lectures and designed to showcase physics through different lenses.
Mrs Finley, Head of Science and a teacher of physics comments: “There’s no better feeling as a teacher than knowing a student has been truly inspired by your subject; inspired enough to sign up for an opportunity to learn more in the summer holidays! Daniella applied and secured a place on the inaugural Representing Physics programme organised by The Blackett Lab Family. The Blackett Lab Family are a collective of UK-based Black physicists aiming to diversify physics and promote Black representation at all levels in the field.”
Daniella reports on her experience at Blackett Lab Family over the summer:
A Glimpse into Physics Wonderland at Imperial College London
On Monday I had the fantastic opportunity to visit Imperial College London, and let me tell you, it was an absolute blast. The day kicked off with mini lectures from some brilliant physicists, including Prof. Toby Wiseman, Dr. Vijay Tymms, and Prof. Riccardo Sapienza. They shared their knowledge and insights, and I couldn't help but be captivated. Learning new bits and pieces about physics never felt so exciting!
After the enlightening lectures, we embarked on a thrilling laboratory tour led by Prof. Stuart Mangles. Our mission: to explore Faraday's Law. It felt like stepping into the shoes of a real undergraduate physicist, and I couldn't believe how hands-on and engaging it was.
Unveiling the Secrets at the National Physical Laboratory
Tuesday took us to the National Physical Laboratory in Teddington, where we dove deeper into the world of physics on a grand scale. The morning began with a behind-the-scenes tour of the labs, and trust me, it was eye-opening. We got a first-hand look at the National Time Scale, where they maintain time accuracy for all of the UK. Who knew there was so much behind the time we see on our phones, satnavs, and watches?
But the real highlight of the day was the Water Rocket Challenge. Armed with two water bottles, tons of tape, a tennis ball and water, we were tasked with creating a rocket that would soar from one side to gracefully land in a bucket of water. Teamwork was the name of the game, and our rocket, fondly named the "Green Machine," delivered the goods. While we didn't quite hit the bullseye, we managed to land our bottle closer to the target than anyone else. Victory was sweet, and our coordinator, Andrew Hanson, was impressed by our performance. We even scored a prize – 3D printed mini people decked out with all the SI units on their chests. I got a set for Mrs Finley to showcase in her classroom!
A Date with the Institute of Physics
On Wednesday I went to the Institute of Physics, where I took part in some tasks involving looking into the value of a 'physics identity' - something that research indicates is necessary to be successful in physics. I reflected on the experiences that could have had an impact on my own physics identity and came up with some strategies to steer away from the outdated stereotypes of what it means to be a physicist and celebrating the successes of Black physicists at the cutting edge of 'representing physics' in the UK.
Oh, and before I go, I thought you might want to see a few pictures I managed to snap during my adventures at Imperial College and the National Physical Laboratory. Enjoy the sneak peek into my summer physics escapades! 😊
So there you have it – my summer adventures in the world of physics so far! It's been a whirlwind of learning, exploration and fun, and I can't wait to see what the rest of my work experience has in store. Waking up early might not be my favourite thing, but when it leads to experiences like these, I'd say it's well worth it!”
If you’re inspired by Daniella’s experience and might like to sign up for next year, details can be found here: Blackett Lab Family . Please do talk to Daniella or Mrs Finley!
