From rockets...to a jet engine!

YOUNGSTERS got into the spirit of November 5^th when they were given the chance to build rockets at Sir John Deane’s College.

The activity was one of the treats in store for around 20 young scientists from local high schools who took part in a Saturday science workshop.

The pupils, from high schools including Weaverham, Helsby, Rudheath, Leftwich, The Grange and Cransley, were invited to take part in a special workshop organised by the science department at Sir John Deane’s College.

During the morning session pupils were challenged to build rockets built from cardboard and paper that were launched into the air using pressure from air pumps.

This was followed by the chance to see a 3-D tour of how a jet engine works.

Alex Forsey and Dr Kevin Tan, two of Manchester University’s leading materials scientists, talked youngsters through the 3-D Rolls Royce Airbus 380 jet engine and explained how a ‘suck-squeeze-bang-blow’ process makes an engine work!

The pupils were then able to test their skills by creating their very own jet engine on a computer simulator. They were able to choose which materials to use and were given a score depending on how far their engine could fly, its cost and environmental impact.

The event, organised by SJD Head of Biology Pauline Lowrie, was held by Sir John Deane’s College as part of its commitment to inspiring young scientists. Afterwards she said: “We are so grateful to the scientists from Manchester University who made the morning so much fun for our young visitors.”

Andrea Fesmer, from the Institute of Physics, and Tim McCall, who teaches physics at SJD, also attended to assist with the fun.