Up, up and away with Science day

More than 350 students from Northamptonshire, Worcestershire and the Midlands will this month learn all about the 'fun' side of science at the University of Birmingham.

From building remote powered vehicles using Lego to getting to grips with blood pressure monitors, the 15 and 16-year-olds will visit the university's Edgbaston campus on 9th January to discover more about student life. They will also attend sessions delivered by the Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, Engineering and Biological Sciences departments.

Mohammed Ansar, the university’s Outreach Officer and organiser of the event, said: “Raising the profile of science and the aspirations of young people to think about Higher Education is an important mission for us. I’m sure the visit will break down barriers that some young people have when thinking about the benefits of post 16 education and especially studying at degree level.

This is a great opportunity for young people to discover what goes on inside universities. "

Leading astronomer, Dr Somak Raychaudhury, of the School of Physics and Astronomy will deliver a keynote lecture on what the universe is made up of. The day will culminate with a mass balloon release, with a prize given to the student whose balloon travels the furthest. The winning balloon last year travelled all the way to Georgia, in the former eastern block.

Ends

Media information: Anna Dingley, Press Officer: Tel: 0121 415 8134/07769952763, email: a.j.dingley@bham.ac.uk    www.newscentre.bham.ac.uk

Notes to Editor:

Balloon release: 2.45-3pm Chancellors Court, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston

Event contact: Mohammed Ansar, Outreach Officer: Tel: 0121 414 7169/07974180154 (on the day)