Alison Rivett is the South West Regional Officer for the Institute of Physics

All the fun of the Astro Fair

There was much science to see and do at the Norman Lockyer Observatory in Sidmouth on Saturday, 7 August  where the IOP-SW was once again invited to run a hands-on physics stand at their annual Astronomy Fair. Situated in an area of outstanding natural beauty on the South Coast, this event attracts several hundred visitors each year.  [...]

Science for All at the Show

Physics was back at the 2010 Devon County Show and this time Marvin & Milo (well, their experiments) were there too!  Once again the ‘Science WithInTent’ Marquee played host to volunteers from the Institute of Physics South West, Gary the Musical Clown and North Wyke Research Station – all coordinated by Devon Education Business Partnership.  During 3 [...]

Small Particles make Big Splash

This month small particles have been making a big splash with pupils in Devon, Cornwall and Somerset schools.  Over 3000 students and teachers have heard CERN & Bristol University physicist Dr Helen Heath talking about what is probably the largest physics experiment in the world – the Large Hadron Collider.  Dr Heath was touring South West schools with [...]

Another great Bath Taps Into Science Fair

For the 4th year running the Physics stand at Bath Taps Into Science made its presence felt, despite the biggest ever number of contributors at this year’s Hands-on Science Fair.  Helped by an enthusiastic bunch of students from the Physics Department at Bath University, visitors produced plenty of noise from cups, coat-hangers, lolly-sticks and even a bin! The 2 [...]

Discovering the sound of physics in Bristol…

Last week the ‘The Galleries’ Mall in Bristol echoed to the sound of science as shoppers were entertained and intrigued by the ‘Discover 2010′ event.  Organised by the University of Bristol’s Centre for Public Engagement as part of National Science & Engineering Week this free, interactive exhibition showcased the latest research ranging from science & art to engineering & [...]