Brilliant Club 2024: Year 9 Scholars Dive into Shock Absorbing Materials
For the past few months, a select group of ambitious Year 9 students from Oulton Academy have embarked on an exciting journey through the Brilliant Club Scholars Programme. This prestigious initiative is designed to engage students with university-style learning, aiming to increase their academic skills and aspirations.
This year's programme centred on an advanced area of physics: the development and applications of shock-absorbing materials. Under the guidance of Meg, an expert lecturer, the students delved into the fascinating world of materials science, focusing specifically on the emerging technology of liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs).
LCEs are a class of materials that combine the properties of liquid crystals with those of elastomers, offering unique advantages in flexibility and impact absorption. These characteristics make them an intriguing candidate for various applications, including safety equipment such as cycle helmets.
Throughout the sessions, the students not only explored the theoretical aspects of LCEs but also honed essential academic skills. They improved their note-taking abilities, expanded their physics vocabulary, and enhanced their research skills. This comprehensive approach allowed them to engage deeply with the subject matter and prepare for their final assignment.
The Culminating Challenge: A 2000-Word Essay
The culmination of their efforts was a challenging 2000-word essay. Each student was tasked with discussing the potential of LCEs in the context of cycle helmets. This assignment required them to apply their newly acquired knowledge, critically analyse the properties of LCEs, and explore how these materials could revolutionise helmet design to provide better protection for cyclists.
The final essays showcased the students' dedication and intellectual curiosity. Their ability to grasp complex concepts and articulate their thoughts in a structured and coherent manner impressed not only their peers but also the academic staff at Oulton Academy.
As the Brilliant Club Scholars Programme concludes, the students leave with more than just knowledge about LCEs. They carry forward a set of valuable skills and an increased confidence in their academic abilities. This experience has opened their eyes to the possibilities of higher education and careers in STEM fields.
Oulton Academy looks forward to continuing its partnership with the Brilliant Club and providing future cohorts of students with similar enriching experiences. The academy is committed to nurturing the talents of its students and supporting them in their academic and personal growth.
The Brilliant Club is an award-winning charity that aims to increase the number of students from under-represented backgrounds progressing to highly selective universities. Through their Scholars Programme, they connect students with PhD researchers and university-style tutorials, providing a taste of higher education and fostering a love for learning.
