Year 11 Triple Physicists Visit the University of Cambridge

On 17 September 2026, 14 students from 11H1 and 11HE1 Triple Science visited the Ray Dolby Centre, home of the renowned Cavendish Laboratory at the University of Cambridge, to attend the Physics at Work event.

The visit gave students the opportunity to experience physics beyond the GCSE curriculum through a series of engaging talks and demonstrations delivered by leading scientists and researchers.

Physics Beyond the Classroom

Students explored several exciting areas of modern physics, including:

• Quantum Computing: learning how qubits and quantum superposition could transform future computing.
• Nanoparticles: discovering how materials behave differently at the nanoscale and their applications in medicine and technology.
• Photonics: exploring the science of light and its use in communications, imaging and advanced research.
• Mars Exploration: understanding the challenges of designing and operating robotic systems on the Red Planet.

The sessions highlighted how physics underpins many of today's most important scientific and technological advances.

Student Reflections

Koyari Kshirsagar (11MHME)

I would like to start by saying what a privilege it was to have the opportunity to visit one of the world's most prestigious universities. The trip provided an inspiring insight into how physics is applied in a wide range of fields through a series of engaging workshops.

During the day, we explored topics including laser printing, quantum computing, and the challenges of sending a rover to Mars. Each workshop featured hands-on activities and experiments that helped bring these fascinating concepts to life and introduced us to ideas beyond the current GCSE curriculum.

My favourite part of the experience was learning how laser printing works and having the opportunity to use the technology to print my name onto a pen. However, every workshop offered something new and exciting, helping me to develop a deeper appreciation of physics and its real-world applications.

Overall, the trip was both educational and inspiring, and it encouraged me to continue exploring the many possibilities that physics has to offer.

Rudra Patel (11MHMe)

Our Year 11 Physics excursion to the University of Cambridge was a truly inspiring and intellectually enriching experience, providing a fascinating insight into some of the most advanced areas of modern physics research.

Upon arrival, the impressive surroundings of the Cavendish Laboratory immediately created a sense of excitement. As one of the most renowned centres for physics research in the world, it combines a rich scientific heritage with state-of-the-art facilities that continue to support groundbreaking discoveries.

Throughout the day, we attended three highly engaging workshops:

Quantum Computing
An introduction to emerging computational technologies, exploring how qubits use quantum phenomena such as superposition to perform calculations in ways that differ fundamentally from classical computers.

Nanoparticles
An exploration of physics at the nanoscale, examining how materials can exhibit unique properties when their size is reduced to just a few billionths of a metre.

Photonics
A study of the interaction between light and matter, demonstrating how advanced imaging technologies, including electron microscopy, enable scientists to observe structures and details that are invisible to the naked eye.

The trip extended far beyond a typical educational visit. It deepened my understanding of contemporary physics, introduced me to exciting areas of scientific research, and motivated me to explore the subject further. The experience broadened my perspective on the possibilities that physics offers and highlighted the important role it plays in shaping future technologies.

I am very grateful for the opportunity to take part in such an inspiring and memorable experience.

Inspiring Future Careers

The event showcased the wide range of careers available through the study of physics, including space science, engineering, computing, medicine, artificial intelligence and scientific research. Students were encouraged to consider A-Level Physics and future STEM pathways.

A Personal Reflection

For me, the visit was especially meaningful. Before joining Hatch End High School, I spent almost seven years as a Senior Postdoctoral Research Scientist at the University of Cambridge's Institute of Biotechnology, working mainly at the Cavendish Laboratory. It was a pleasure to return with our students and see them inspired by the same world-class scientific environment.

Acknowledgements

The Physics Department would like to thank Mrs Megan Kennedy for supporting the visit and Mr Jacob Butler (Outreach Manager) and Dr Steve Martin for providing such an engaging and inspiring programme.

The trip was an excellent opportunity for our students to experience cutting-edge science first-hand, and we hope it will encourage many of them to pursue further studies and careers in STEM.

Dr H. Mehta