QuarkNet Cymru

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This project aims to enthuse secondary school students in STEM activities through engagement in real hands-on astrophysics experiments - measuring cosmic rays (high energy particles travelling through space) using detectors based in schools. Building on a currently-funded Welsh Government grant to pilot the use of an array of cosmic detectors in schools across South Wales (which began in Jan. 2016), this project will:* Develop and provide a range of educational resources based upon particle physics and linked to the Physics curriculum in schools (WJEC in Wales). This will include paper-based resources, interactive resources and also a roadshow for schools-based workshops* Work with scientists involved in this area of STFC science to gather advice on the current state of this research, and also to help them disseminate their work to a wider audience* Develop and maintain a website which will both act as a repository of the resources for using the detectors in the classroom, but also as a collaborative learning space where schools can upload their data and work together to analyse their results* Develop and run a teacher CPD programme for teachers across Wales to come and learn about particle physics research and how they can become involved in the QuarkNet Cymru project* Train undergraduate and postgraduate students from Cardiff and Swansea Universities in science communication and the contents of the QuarkNet Cymru programme, so that they can help deliver the programme in local schools, act as role models for the school students, and also aid the teachers with the practical aspects of the project* Develop a particle physics equipment 'loan scheme' where schools from across Wales can apply to borrow smaller items of kit which can be used for experiments in their classrooms.This project will be the first of its kind in Wales, building on an existing STEM programme, HiSparc/QuarkNet, operated by the University of Birmingham (with Bristol, Bath and Glasgow).