Italian scientist visits Wellington College Hangzhou

We would not be able to progress as a species in the modern world if we did not come together as a collective for the greater good. In no other subject is there more evidence to support my statement than in the subject that I love and teach science. Whenever there is a problem, scientists collaborate to solve it; one of the best examples of this is the Large Hadron Collider in Europe. More than 60 countries interact with CERN (Conseil Européen pour la Recherche Nucléaire, in English, European Council for Nuclear Research), including China. I firmly believe that introducing the need for transnational cooperation to our students in science will broaden their world views and understanding of the world around us. 

The purpose of the Large Hadron Collider is to further advance our understanding of physics. It is a 27km underground ring where particles are fired towards each other close to the speed of light. It has already been successful in explaining where mass comes from. Scientists are also currently researching a possible new force and sub-atomic particle. 

On Monday 31 May, Dr. Cristiano Alpigiani paid a virtual visit to Year 9 students at Wellington College International Hangzhou. The purpose of the talk was for students to meet an established scientist, renowned his field and to build upon what they have been learning in the classroom. It was also a fantastic opportunity to stretch and challenge the students to think beyond the IGCSE. The Large Hadron Collider is extremely exciting and at the forefront of current scientific research. Students enjoyed a 40-minute talk about the Large Hadron Collider and then a 20 -minute question and answer session.

I am delighted at how much students enjoyed the talk. I look forward to more opportunities in the future to host more scientific events and visit important places of scientific research. 

David Clough

Science Teacher