Reaching out to schools for the International Day of Light

On May 15th 2018, MSSL organised a secondary schools event to celebrate UNESCO’s International Day of Light. The event was sponsored by Nature Communications and Nature and was attended by 240 year 7 and 8 students. During the day students were able to listen to talks that discussed the chemistry of how light is made, the importance of light in the development of modern humans and how light is generated and used by animals. A series of hands-on activities were also run during the day by scientists, engineers and archaeologists from across UCL. 

Prof. Lucie Green, one of the organisers, said, “We are passionate about working with our schools both locally and nationally. Everyone benefits from an open discussion about the latest research."

“The International Day of Light aims to provide "an annual focal point for the continued appreciation of light and the role it plays in science, culture and art, education, and sustainable development, and in fields as diverse as medicine, communications, and energy. The broad theme of light will allow many different sectors of society worldwide to participate in activities that demonstrates how science, technology, art and culture can help achieve the goals of UNESCO – education, equality, and peace.”

Dr. Will Dunn led the hands-on demonstrations and said, “We wanted to show just how diverse our scientists and engineers are. Giving school student to opportunity to really interact with the people carrying out the research, and giving them the chance to have a go themselves, is a great way to have a lasting positive impact."