Oxford Hosts Inspiring Science Days for Local Primary Schools

Trinity joined with Oxford’s Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences (MPLS) Division to welcome enthusiastic Year 5 students from local UK state primary schools for two days packed with exciting, hands-on scientific workshops.

The MPLS Primary Science Days are a key part of the Oxford College Twinning Project, one of the initiatives detailed in a report published earlier this year that sets out the University’s ambitious plans to support positive social, economic and environmental change in the city and county. This programme partners local state schools with Oxford colleges to enhance educational opportunities and foster community relationships.

The event, held in collaboration with Trinity, St John's, St Anne's, and Lincoln colleges, offered students a vibrant opportunity to explore various scientific disciplines. Expert teams from Chemistry, Begbroke, Engineering Science, Computer Science, Physics, Earth Sciences, Biology, Materials, and Maths led dynamic workshops.

Highlights included Chemistry's 'Chemical Clocks' workshop, where pupils learned to investigate chemical reactions using hands-on experiments, and the engaging Computer Science session featuring spherical robots that students programmed and controlled. The Earth Sciences department introduced students to fascinating fossils and the intricacies of fossilisation, while the Biology team arranged for them to closely examine insects through microscopes.

Each day, students rotated through three workshops, participating in interactive learning experiences tailored to complement their science curriculum. After the workshops, the excitement culminated in an engaging lecture-demonstration at Trinity College, providing a grand finale before students departed.

Professor Alex Betts, Pro-Vice Chancellor for External Engagement, Sport, and Community at the University of Oxford, said: 'Our Twinning Programme exemplifies Oxford's dedication to meaningful local engagement, providing opportunities for young people to experience first-hand the transformative power of education and innovation. Events like these Science Days foster aspirations and help build vibrant, knowledgeable communities.'

Hannah Rolley, Trinity’s Head of Access, said: ‘It’s been fantastic working with colleagues across the MPLS division to showcase the breadth of science happening at Oxford, and show our young participants how exciting it can be to study science at university.

‘We are proud of our role in the Twinning Project and as link college for Oxford city and county we take seriously our commitment to offering activities that help raise attainment in and around Oxford, and ensuring our local community have access to some of the inspiring resources of the university.’