November 2023
SciTech BulletinOne Stan-X
The scaffolding is down, the classrooms and labs are open and Haileybury is ready for the next stage of its STEM journey! After an intense year in which contractors assembled a beautiful, cutting-edge architectural design with sustainable materials and technologies in record time, the project was handed over to Haileybury on 26 October – and is now ready for learning, research and a host of inspiring pupil experiences!
This year, we will be introducing a new programme in tandem with the opening of SciTech associated with Physics and Engineering. The programme will see pupils from year groups throughout the School working together as part of a team to develop and eventually launch a CubeSat into space. A CubeSat is a miniaturised satellite used by research institutions to undertake space research in a cost effective way, by utilising unused space in rockets launched into space. The successful launch of the CubeSat will require pupils to undertake research in a number of different areas including spacecraft systems engineering to space mission planning and orbital mechanics to the engineering principles behind
constructing the CubeSat. Pupils will then come up with a mission plan outlining what the CubeSat will achieve. The programme will provide pupils with hands on experience with a long term scientific project that will take a number of years to complete and will therefore need to be properly documented; as in a real laboratory setting. One of the most interesting aspects of the programme is that the pupils will have to work on communicating the progress of their work to the Haileybury Community and outside of it to find an industry partner who will be willing to help launch the CubeSat into space.
Sixth Form pupils will work on this inspiring study within a purpose-built laboratory in our new STEM Research Centre, using state of the art microscopes. Evidence collected at Haileybury contributes to the investigation of diseases that is being completed by a global community of researchers. Research findings co-authored by pupils and teachers are published in peer-reviewed science journals and are presented at international conferences in the United States. After a rigorous interview process, we are extremely proud of the pupils who are selected to take part in this exceptional opportunity.
Robotics
Haileybury launches CubeSat programme!
Stan-X is a pioneering study of genetics that allows pupils to work alongside scientists at Stanford University and the University of Oxford finding cures for diseases such as pancreatic cancer and diabetes. First of its kind in Europe, this ground-breaking programme enables pupils to research the genetic processes that drive human diseases by identifying phenotypic markers in Drosophila Melanogaster, otherwise known as fruit flies. Fruit flies share 60% of their genetic information with humans, approximately 75% of genes that have the ability to cause illnesses in humans are present in fruit flies. This makes Drosophila excellent models for the study of human diseases.
SciTech Robotics will allow the pupils to explore the cutting edge development of autonomous function within robotics and programming. Incorporating elements of Further Maths, Physics, Computer Science and Design and Technology, pupils will be immersed in the fascinating world of robotics. Our goal is to provide pupils with a comprehensive and hands-on learning experience that will prepare them for the ever-evolving technological landscape. Through Vex Robotics, pupils will learn to design, build, program, and compete with their own robots. We intend to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and creativity among our pupils, skills that are essential in today’s digital age. As we embark on this journey, we are committed to offering a supportive and enriching environment, initially guided by SciTech staff but later in the vertical model of teaching where the experienced, senior pupils will be leading and coaching the new crop of young roboteers. By participating in Vex Robotics, pupils will not only have fun but also gain valuable skills that will serve them well throughout their academic and professional lives.
Haileybury pupils have the chance to engage in open-ended learning experiences through the Engineering Room using the Arduino microcontroller.
This weekly club offers pupils a platform to deviate from conventional learning methods and to transform their unique ideas into reality. Pupils acquire skills in constructing electronic
circuits, programming the Arduino board, designing Internet of Things devices and utilising sensor feedback to develop autonomous systems that contribute to energy conservation and sustainability.
Arduino Club
Maker Space
The Maker Space is located in the science research building, it is a dedicated space for pupils and staff to work across the different STEM subjects to co-create, share resources and knowledge, work on projects, and build. It is a great place to learn new skills, experiment with new ideas, and collaborate with others on creative projects.
The new SciTech building not only provides a wonderful opportunity for pupils to expand beyond the Removes pathway but also to further develop their knowledge and skills. The establishment of an Astrophysics Society will empower pupils to construct a radio telescope using SciTech’s Maker Space facilities, thereby opening up the cosmos for exploration through radio waves. The significance of this advanced science pathway is underscored by its contribution to the CubeSat program. Pupils will bring the requisite knowledge and skills to not only build a satellite but also effectively analyse the data it transmits. Looking ahead, the next substantial phase for the Astrophysics pathway involves the construction of an observatory capable of housing a Meade 14-inch telescope, which can capture stunning images of celestial objects. This telescope’s high resolution capabilities enables pupils to conduct experiments and activities that were previously beyond our reach, including measuring lunar crater depths and conducting a more detailed analysis of our solar system.
Astrophysics Haileybury Twilight Sessions will offer pupils and members of the Haileybury community the opportunity to dig deeper into the latest developments in STEM. With a combination of lectures and teaching seminars from experts in the respective STEM fields, the evening sessions will aim to excite and enlighten participants with hands-on activities. The sessions will be hosted in the lecture space on the first floor of the Research Centre.
Twilight sessions
Haileybury’s Maker Space is an ongoing project space where pupils can come together to make things. It is equipped with a variety of tools and materials, including 3D printers, laser cutters, sewing machines, and electronics tools.
The Advanced Astrophysics and Science pathway in Removes offers pupils a captivating introduction to the realms of advanced astrophysics and astronomy. Here, they delve into a range of concepts typically introduced in more advanced physics courses, encompassing cosmology, star evolution, Hawking radiation, black holes, special and general relativity, and even quantum mechanics. The hands-on aspect of the course entails mastering the use of Newtonian Telescopes (Skywatchers) and Hybrid Celestrons, enabling pupils to observe the night sky firsthand and attain a deeper comprehension of these advanced astrophysical concepts.
Want to know more? Visit Haileybury.com/Scitech