Pupils of Blacon High School made scientific discoveries thanks to a Lab in a Lorry initiative.

The Institute of Physics scheme saw the lorry visit the school for three days.

Guided by expert volunteers, students experienced a range of hands-on physics experiments.

In the medical physics zone, students investigated the total internal reflection of light and explored the use of optical fibres. Budding surgeons then applied their knowledge of optical fibres and used an endoscope to perform keyhole surgery on a dummy patient.

Year 11 students, Jade Rumsey, Jack Howell and Dan Dixey perform keyhole surgery on a dummy patient
Year 11 students, Jade Rumsey, Jack Howell and Dan Dixey perform keyhole surgery on a dummy patient

Students smashed a couple of wine glasses, not by dropping them but by using soundwaves, and then took a scientific approach, first of all learning about the theory, before carrying out an experiment to break a glass.

Students then found why the sky was blue in the final zone, where they explored how light waves travelling from the sun are scattered as they pass through Earth's atmosphere.

Year 8 student Kia Piggott, 12, said: “I loved learning why the sky is blue and now my mum and dad now know too.”

Blacon High School's involvement with the project will continue throughout the academic year.

Head of science John Lacey explained: “The hour that each of our students enjoyed, engaging with the physics activities in the lorry, will have a long-term impact on learning. We will be able to build on the enthusiasm and understanding the students gained, as we teach linked topics in the curriculum.”

The visit was  part of a project with the  Institute of Physics in partnership with OPITO, the Scottish Government, the Welsh Government, the Schlumberger Foundation and STEMNET.

Claire Jones and Chloe Rogers from year 10
Claire Jones and Chloe Rogers from year 10