Younger students in Years 7 to 9 delved into the interface between eco-science and business , exploring groundbreaking green technologies and sustainability initiatives led by eco-entrepreneur Dale Vince .
Visiting speaker Professor Lewis Dartnell mesmerised Year 9 students with insights into the brain through optical and auditory illusions , unravelling the mysteries of the mind . Professor Dartnell also led captivating discussions on astrobiology , igniting curiosity about the search for alien life and the origins of life on Earth .
Practical workshops with Professor Dartnell challenged students to think critically about testing for life on Mars and rebuilding civilisation from scratch , fostering hands-on experiences that stimulated scientific inquiry and problem-solving skills . Additionally , interactive sessions like the Royal Institution Energy LIVE ! show and the Climate Change Modelling Workshop with Dr Fraser Lott of the Met Office provided students with tangible experiences to comprehend complex scientific concepts , leaving them inspired and eager to delve deeper into the fascinating world of science .
Every year , the school has an impressive array of activities for STEAM Week – this year ’ s theme being sustainability in science and technology , hence the name Green STEAM Week . From presentations from renowned scientists to interactive workshops and green nail painting , the school tackled this theme from every angle , appealing to all ages and interests in the school .
Among the highlights was a stimulating debate for Year 10 on the role of scientists as activists , sparking lively discussions on the evolving responsibilities amid global crises , like Covid-19 and climate change .
As for my contribution to Green STEAM Week , I presented three assemblies about rewilding techniques to the Sixth Form , Year 9 and Lower School , as well as assisting in a student-led physics electromagnetism workshop with primary school students . The opportunity to research a topic that fascinates me , followed by the feeling of the hot Pamoja Hall stage lights on my face and looking out and feeling like people were listening to what I had to say , is what made it a thoroughly worthwhile experience for me . Over the course of the week , over 1200 primary school students visited Sevenoaks School to participate in science workshops . I love physics , and interacting with young children who show talent and interest in it from such a young age was so enlightening .
Overall , as someone who enjoys science , I feel nothing but thankful for the ability to contribute to and learn from these activities , and I honestly believe that every student benefited from this week .
Magda Prokopieva , Year 11
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