Stimulating Physics - careers and enterprise

The Institute of Physics worked with the  Career Development Organisation to produce activities aimed at improving students' attitude towards physics, and awareness of career routes.

The project developed two packs for use in schools with the help of the Careers Research and Advisory Centre (CRAC). The packs cover enterprise activities and teachers' workshops. The Ashfield Music Festival activity was designed as a mechanism to broaden the perceptions of students aged 13-14 towards physics, and highlight the range of careers opened up by studying A level physics. Working in teams, students design all aspects of the main stage for a music festival.

Each team member picks a role based on the skills they will be using and information is given via videos and speaking to experts. At the end of the day, teams present their plans to a panel representing Ashfield Council, which selects the contract-winning proposal. Students use planning, analytical, negotiation and team working skills, as well as physics and maths in a context that is appealing and challenging. Sample resources are available to view here, with further information from the Institute of Physics website.