Physics Week 2026 – A Brilliant Success!

Physics Week 2026 proved to be another outstanding celebration of curiosity, creativity and scientific exploration across the school. From hands‑on investigations to model‑making, careers insights and university‑level workshops, students from every year group enjoyed a packed timetable of activities designed to spark excitement and deepen their understanding of the physical world.

Challenges, Creativity and Hands‑On Science

The week began with a competitive buzz as Mrs Davison launched her school-wide Physics Quiz. Open to students and staff alike, the quiz challenged participants with puzzles, brainteasers and physics trivia. House points were awarded across all year groups, with a winner in each category — and even a few determined teachers managing to secure victories of their own. The event set an energetic tone for the days ahead.

Year 8 students then took on the ambitious task of designing scale models of the Solar System. Blending mathematical calculations with creativity, teams worked together to construct representations of planets, orbits and relative distances. Many models showcased impressive craftsmanship, while others introduced an imaginative twist — including a few that were not only scientifically inspired but also edible! Regardless of approach, the project encouraged students to think critically about the scale of our universe.

For Year 10, the focus shifted closer to home as they embarked on an engaging tour of the school’s energy systems. With the help of Maintenance Manager Nigel Hyland, who led the visit with expert knowledge and enthusiasm, students explored the boiler room, plant room and roof — the latter viewed through drone footage. Along the way, they tackled quizzes and mental‑maths challenges before returning to the classroom for a demonstration of micro‑generators.

Science of Light, STEM Careers and Impressive Achievement

Years 11 and 13 had the exciting opportunity to participate in workshops delivered by Queen’s University Belfast, where they explored the science of light through hands‑on experiments. Using university‑level equipment, students investigated concepts such as spectroscopy and optical analysis, gaining insights into how scientists study the universe without leaving Earth. The sessions provided a valuable bridge between classroom learning and real scientific research.

Senior students also benefited from a CEIAG careers talk focused on the broad pathways opened by studying A‑level Physics. James, now working with Camlin, explained how his role contributes to the reliability of power networks through advanced electrical monitoring systems. Meanwhile, Ben joined the session live from Chicago, where he is currently auditing America’s second‑largest private company with Grant Thornton. Their stories highlighted the versatility and global relevance of physics qualifications.

The department was also thrilled to celebrate the achievements of five AS students in this year’s Physics Olympiad. Their impressive results — two Silver and three Bronze certificates — reflect outstanding commitment and talent. A special congratulations goes to Maison Baisley, who came remarkably close to achieving Gold, demonstrating excellence at a highly challenging national level.

Rockets, Baking… and Leptons? Physics Week Comes to Life!

Year 14 students took part in two particularly memorable activities during Physics Week. The UKROC rocket team is currently finalising their competition model, scheduled for its first test launch next weekend before participating in the Northern Ireland heat on 27 March. Their dedication, teamwork and technical skill have already impressed, and the whole school community wishes them the very best of luck.

Meanwhile, the rest of the year group swapped lab coats for aprons in a physics‑themed baking challenge. Creations ranged from Quark Cookies to Particle Cupcakes, but the winning entry stood out for its meticulous design: colour‑coordinated matter and antimatter leptons, carefully separated yet scientifically inspired. The activity offered a fun and imaginative way to bring physics concepts to life.

Reflecting on the week, Mrs C. Crozier, Head of Physics, shared her delight:
“Physics Week is always a highlight, but this year the enthusiasm, imagination and teamwork shown by our students was truly exceptional. Watching them explore, experiment and enjoy physics in so many different ways has been inspiring — it’s been an amazing experience for all of us.”

A huge well done to all involved in making Physics Week 2026 such a tremendous success — a celebration of curiosity, creativity and the exciting power of Physics!

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Find out more about our ‘Science in Focus’ weeks below:

Biology Week at Wallace 2025