Exploring New Frontiers: Isca Academy Launches Into British Science Week with Stellar Space Science Event
Students at Isca Academy were treated to an unforgettable British Science Week event as they welcomed Drs. Natalie Whitehead and Alice Mills from the Exeter Science Centre, alongside a team of academics from Exeter University, on Thursday, 13th March.
The visit brought the “Our World from Space” project to the school, offering an exciting exploration into the crucial role of UK space science in the health and sustainability of our planet.
The event, designed to celebrate British Science Week and its theme of ‘Change and Adapt,’ allowed students to engage in a variety of interactive activities focused on space technology, satellites, and their real-world applications in tackling global challenges. From environmental sustainability and weather prediction to understanding the impacts of climate change, the hands-on experiences gave students an insight into how space science is key to addressing some of the most pressing issues on Earth.
This event is a part of the Exeter Science Centre’s wider mission to engage the public with the latest scientific research, particularly through their Future Researchers in Schools programme. The visit also reflects Isca Academy’s commitment to excellence in STEM education, following their impressive science results in the summer of 2024, where 71.6% of students achieved a grade 4 or above in science, significantly surpassing national averages.
The “Our World from Space” event is part of the Futures: A Festival of Discovery for the South West initiative, which brings researchers from the University of Exeter into local schools to share their expertise and inspire the next generation of scientists and researchers.
The science curriculum at Isca Academy, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, is designed to help students develop critical thinking, build on observations, and ask insightful questions, so they gain a deep understanding of the world around them. Practical activities allow students to apply their knowledge, while lessons link scientific ideas to real-world applications, including discussions about STEM careers and current science news. By the end of their studies, students leave Isca not only prepared for further academic challenges but also with a greater understanding of the relevance of science in everyday life.
Mrs Vicki Joyce, Headteacher at Isca Academy said: “We are incredibly proud of our students’ achievements in science, and this event was the perfect way to bring those successes to life. The interactive sessions with experts in the field inspired our students and helped them connect what they’re learning in the classroom with cutting-edge research. It’s experiences like these that shape the innovators and problem-solvers of tomorrow.”
Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said: “At the Ted Wragg Trust, we are committed to providing opportunities to bring the curriculum to life beyond the classroom, including offering our students chances to engage with leading experts and cutting-edge research. The ‘Our World from Space’ event is a prime example of how we aim to inspire scientific curiosity. It’s fantastic to see our students exploring the vital role of space science in addressing global challenges, and we are incredibly proud of the innovative work happening at Isca Academy.”
