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Science experts inspire St Swithun’s prep students |
This term, St Swithun’s Prep School welcomed parents working in science-related fields to deliver hands-on lessons, giving pupils a unique opportunity to learn directly from professionals.
Skin & Senses from Dr Archard
One of our first visits was Dr Archard, a GP and dermatology specialist. She led a session for Reception on skin and the sense of touch, including efficient hand washing techniques plus an introduction to her role. The girls were thrilled to walk away with a ‘Mini Doctor’ certificate and Dr Archard said, “It was wonderful to observe the girls’ enthusiasm, focus and participation.”
Rocks & Minerals from Mrs Vrana
The following week, Mrs Vrana (a writer with an avid interest in minerals) joined Year 3 to share her collection of rocks, minerals and fossils to complement their rocks and soils topic. The session included a discussion about how minerals are formed, some close observation and identification, alongside interesting back-stories about the samples and where Mrs Vrana discovered them.
Radiology & Cardiology from Dr Georgina Adam and Dr Rob Adam
Year 6 then had the opportunity to learn more about radiology and cardiology as part of their human body topic this term from Dr Georgina Adam and Dr Rob Adam. The session included anatomy of the chest and circulatory system, and a look at how CT and MRI scanning can assist with viewing the body in a non-invasive way to assess the patient needs. We also discussed how to keep hearts healthy to avoid problems later in life and how cardiology specialists treat heart failure.
Bones & Skeletons by Dr Dan Cadoux
Dr Dan Cadoux gave Year 1 a fun workshop on all thing’s bones and skeletons – teaching the girls how bones support our bodies and muscles. We looked at bones under a microscope then labelled our full-size skeleton. After many curious questions at the end, Year 1 student Danica commented “I loved learning how bones are fixed” and she inspires to be a doctor or vet in the future. Dr Dan added, “It was wonderful to spend this afternoon with such an engaging, inquisitive and fun year group, sharing ideas while encouraging their curiosity and enthusiasm for learning.”
Dentistry & Oral Hygiene by Dr Chris Leech
Last week Dr Chris Leech came in to speak with EYFS and Year 4 about proper oral health, with the children then using disclosing tablets to guide them in adapting their brushing techniques. Chris said, “It is always a pleasure to come and speak to enthusiastic young minds about the challenging and rewarding career pathway dentistry can be, as well as the importance of a healthy mouth.”
“Inviting parents with science expertise into the classroom has enriched our lessons with real-world knowledge and provided visible role models who demonstrate that careers in science are both attainable and exciting. These interactions help dismantle stereotypes, boost confidence, and encourage girls to see themselves as potential future scientists”, said Karen Brown, Head of Science at St Swithun’s Prep.
