During Half Term, the budding young physicists of the Lower Sixth were given the opportunity to visit the Centre for the Research of Nuclear Physics (CERN) in Geneva, Switzerland. It was viewed as a pilgrimage for knowledge of fundamental particles and how they interact with the natural world, the pupils were excited.
Writes Magnus C. L6ths:
The trip as a whole was magnificent, beginning with a treacherous journey across the Alps. Having travelled hundreds of miles to our destination (aided somewhat along the way by EasyJet, of course), we reached Geneva, where we turned in for the night.
During our first day, the cohort was enlightened as to the wonders of the quantum universe and enthralled by a demonstration which showcased the day-to-day activities of scientists at CERN in granular detail. After this, we were given a tour of the campus by one of the scientists who worked there, exploring one of the eleven particle colliders that have been installed on the site. Later that night, the magic of the Europa League Final resulted in a mixed set of emotions going into the next day, particularly with Mr. Said (Physics Teacher) awaking a very unhappy man.
Only the lure of quantum physics could buoy the flatter members of our party, and once again, we journeyed to CERN, where we had the pleasure of carrying out a cloud chamber experiment using specialist equipment, guided by one of its many expert researchers. We observed the usually invisible traces of background radiation, which occurs all around us at all times, differentiating between the different types of paths taken by different types of particles; this fascinating experience stands out as a notable highlight.
Having comprehensively traversed the museum, which included various highly engaging and enjoyable exhibitions, students delighted in discovering the sights of the city, such as Lake Geneva and its Jet d’Eau (a particularly fine spot to take a photograph), sampling traditional Swiss cuisine with a live performance of regional music, and an outdoor escape game which pitted groups of students against one another. Quickly, the picturesque Old Town became an ill-suited venue for a battle of wits; one had no time to soak in the atmosphere of the historic Rue de Berne while devoting the entirety of one’s attention to the arduous yet addictive mental challenge at hand. The cohort is very much indebted to Mrs Mayadeen for diligently organising an informative, enriching and thoroughly enjoyable trip. Thanks to all who made it possible.
